Sven S Rees, Aron J Murphy, Mark L Watsford
Background and Purpose
Vibration training is a relatively new exercise intervention. This study investigated the effects of vibration exercise on strength (force-producing capacity) and power in older adults who are healthy.
Participants and Methods
Thirty participants (mean age73.7 years, SD4.6) were randomly assigned to a vibration exercise training (VIB) group or an exercise without vibration training (EX) group. The interventions consisted of 3 sessions per week for 8 weeks. Outcome measures included isokinetic flexor and extensor strength and power of the hip, knee, and ankle.
Results
The VIB group significantly improved ankle plantar flexor strength and power compared with the EX group. However, there were no significant differences be- tween the VIB and EX groups for knee flexor or extensor strength.
Discussion and Conclusion
Vibration training contributed to an increase in plantar flexor strength and power. However, the strength gains for the knee and hip flexors and extensors for the VIB group and the EX group were comparable. Future vibration protocols should explore different body positions to target muscles higher up on the leg.
462 f Physical Therapy Volume 88 Number 4 April 2008
At FYZICAL-Galleria in Houston, We use whole body vibration method to treat Lower-Extremity Muscle Strength and Power. Call us at 346-438-6179 or email to galleria@fyzical.com.