Article

Whole-body vibration (WBV) has gained increasing popularity in
rehabilitation. Recent studies have investigated the application of WBV in
individuals with chronic illnesses, including stroke. The purpose of
this study was to compare WBV exercise with the same exercise condition without
WBV and with other types of physical exercise in enhancing body functions and
structures, activity, and participation in individuals with stroke and examine
its safety. DATA SOURCE: Electronic searches were conducted on MEDLINE, CINAHL,
PEDro, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Science Citation Index. STUDY SELECTION: Randomized
controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effects of WBV among individuals
with stroke were identified by 2 independent researchers. Ten articles (9
studies, totaling 333 study participants) satisfied the selection criteria and
were included in this review. DATA EXTRACTION: The methodological quality was
rated using the PEDro scale. The results were extracted by 2 independent
researchers and confirmed with the principal investigator. DATA SYNTHESIS: Only 2
RCTs were considered as demonstrating level 1 evidence (PEDro score >/=6 and
sample size >50). Two RCTs examined the effects of a single WBV session, and 7
RCTs examined the effects of WBV programs spanning 3 to 12 weeks. No consistent
benefits on bone turnover, leg motor function, balance, mobility, sensation, fall
rate, activities of daily living, or societal participation were found,
regardless of the nature of the comparison group. Adverse events were minor.
LIMITATIONS: A broad approach was used, with stroke as an inclusion criterion for
review. No solid evidence was found concerning the effects of WBV on subgroups of
people with specific stroke-related deficits due to the heterogeneity of patient
groups. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the review, there is insufficient evidence to
support clinical use of WBV in enhancing body functions and structures, activity,
and participation after stroke.
CI - (c) 2014 American Physical Therapy Association.

Langue : ANGLAIS