VIBRATION THERAPY
Vibration therapy uses vibration as a physical tool during treatment. Vibration is the propagation of elastic waves producing deformations and tensions on a continuous medium. The vibratory movement is very short and fast and repeated around an equilibrium position.
Vibration can be applied with different devices, as local therapy or as whole-body vibration.
In vibration therapy, the stimulation of muscle spindles and alpha-motor neurons muscle causes muscle contraction, and it increases electromyographic activity. Oxygen consumption, muscle temperature,and skin blood flow increase directly proportional to vibration.
Vibration therapy (VT) has been proposed as an option to improve physical performance and reduce the negative effects of ageing on bone, muscles and tendons.
Benefits
Neuropathic pain
Whole body vibration has positive long term effects on neuropathic pain caused by diabetes
Low Back Pain
Combined vibration and traction therapy are more effective than traction alone.
Heel lance pain among neonates
Mechanical vibration may be an effective and safe method for pain management of heel lance pain among neonates.
Muscle Pain:
- Several articles investigate the effects of therapeutic vibration on the Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS).
- Most of them conclude that both the vibration applied locally and the whole body vibration, reduces pain.
- Furthermore, they point that vibration therapy improved muscular strength, power development, kinesthetic awareness, range of motion, and increased blood flow under the skin.
Other applications of vibration in Physical Therapy
- Research also suggests that vibration therapy is beneficial for those who follow a regular workout schedule. A study published in the Journal of Athletic Training concluded that the therapy prevented delayed onset muscle soreness, when conducted before the exercise session.
- These kinds of results suggest that vibration therapy may improve overall athletic performance. Some gyms even have vibrating fitness machines, which can improve muscle strength in elderly adults and aid in weight loss.
How does it work ?
This therapy transmits gentle vibrations throughout the body that stimulate the muscles, causing them to contract and relax. This increases blood flow to the areas that need it for healing. Certain vibrations also promote the production of osteoblasts, which are important for bone growth and repair. Sending gentle, massaging sensations to replace the discomfort, therapy machines and products result in a soothing feeling of pain relief, free of any electric shocks.