Effects of whole body vibration therapy in pain, function and depression of the patients with fibromyalgia

Abstract

Aim: Aim of the study is to search the effects of whole body vibration (WBV) in fibromyalgia patients.

Materials and methods: In this single blind study 20 fibromyalgia patients were diagnosed according to 2010 American College of Rheumatology criteria whom participated in the study with the mean age of 57 ± 7 (years). Participants were randomized into 2 equal groups. In the intervention group (n = 10), 6 different types of exercises were combined with 30 hz frequency, 2 mm amplitude WBV for 4 weeks, The control group (n = 10) performed the same exercises on the same platform without vibration. The patients were assessed at baseline, at the 3rd and 6th months by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).

Results: Only FIQ score was significantly better in the treatment group at the 6th month evaluation (p = 0.043).

Conclusion: WBV is found to be effective in reducing symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Keywords: Exercise; Fibromyalgia; Pain; Vibration.