A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluating the effect of whole body vibration training on fibromyalgia

Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effect of whole-body vibration training on fibromyalgia. To identify relevant studies, we conducted a comprehensive search of the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Scopus databases from their inception through May 2, 2025. We included studies if they (1) enrolled participants with fibromyalgia; (2) treated participants by using a whole-body vibration training intervention; (3) applied exercise, standard care, or no intervention as the control treatment; and (4) included clinical outcomes such as the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, pain level, quality of life, stability index, and motor function in the related tasks. This meta-analysis included seven randomized controlled trials. The analyses demonstrated that whole-body vibration training led to statistically significant improvements in Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire scores (standardized mean difference [SMD]: - 0.37, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: [- 0.73, - 0.01]), overall stability index (SMD: -0.55, 95% CI: [- 0.95, - 0.15]), and performance in the 6-minute walking test (SMD: 1.65, 95% CI: [1.11, 2.20]). The findings suggest that whole-body vibration training is a viable therapeutic option for individuals with fibromyalgia. Limitations of this study include its relatively small sample size, variations in diagnostic criteria, and the lack of standardized guidelines. To confirm the benefits of whole-body vibration training, additional large-scale, well-designed randomized controlled trials should be conducted.

Keywords: Fibromyalgia; Meta-analysis; Systematic review; Whole-body vibration.

Fig. 1

Article selection process.

Fig. 2

Forest plot for all results. (A) FIQ score, (B) pain score, (C) overall stability index, (D) mediolateral stability index, (E) anteroposterior stability index, (F) quality of life. Motor function in the related tasks, including (G) 6MWT, and (H) lower body dynamic strength. SD, standard deviation; CI, confidence interval; 6MWT, 6-minute walking test.