Article

Whole-body vibration exercise (WBVE) has become progressively more accepted as a training method for populations of all ages and conditions to promote muscle strength, bone health, functional mobility and balance. In order to determine whether or not WBVE has positive effects and should be included in physical therapy treatment, the effects of WBVE on bed rest (BR) are examined.
The effects of WBVE on prevention of the negative effects of prolonged BR are systematically reviewed.
A systematic review of literature from several databases including CINAHL, PubMed, MEDLINE, and SPORTDiscus was undertaken to identify randomized controlled trials related to WBVE and BR. The quality of the studies was graded according to the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. The selection and assessment of specific reported outcomes helped determine an effect.
Results: Methodological scores ranged from 7 to 8 out of 10. A total of 13 out of the 16 included studies showed positive effects for WBVE on bone health, postural control, cartilage thickness, muscle size, strength, function, fatigability and blood flow.
Conclusion: With strong evidence, WBVE appears to be a safe and promising training intervention for maintaining bone density, muscle strength and size in the lower half of the body, at least in young healthy males and females limited to BR. Although current research is limited by heterogeneity of study parameters, further investigation is warranted for WBVE in preventing the negative affects associated with prolonged BR.

Langue : ANGLAIS