No specific effect of whole-body vibration training in chronic stroke: a double-blind randomized controlled study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) training in individuals after stroke.

Design: A double-blind randomized controlled study with assessments pre- and posttraining.

Setting: A university hospital rehabilitation department.

Participants: Participants (N=31; mean age ± SD, 62±7 y; 6-101 mo poststroke) were randomized to an intervention group or a control group.

Interventions: Supervised WBV training (2 sessions/wk for 6wk; 12 repetitions of 40-60s WBV per session). The intervention group trained on a vibrating platform with a conventional amplitude (3.75 mm) and the control group on a "placebo" vibrating platform (0.2mm amplitude); the frequency was 25Hz on both platforms. All participants and examiners were blinded to the amplitudes of the 2 platforms.

Main outcome measures: Primary outcome measures were isokinetic and isometric knee muscle strength (dynamometer). Secondary outcome measures were balance (Berg Balance Scale), muscle tone (Modified Ashworth Scale), gait performance (Timed Up & Go, comfortable gait speed, fast gait speed, and six-minute walk tests), and perceived participation (Stroke Impact Scale).

Results: There were no significant differences between the 2 groups after the WBV training. Significant but small improvements (P<.05) in body function and gait performance were found within both groups, but the magnitude of the changes was in the range of normative variation.

Conclusions: Six weeks of WBV training on a vibration platform with conventional amplitude was not more efficient than a placebo vibrating platform. Therefore, the use of WBV training in individuals with chronic stroke and mild to moderate disability is not supported.