Effects of Whole-Body Vibration on Physical Performance in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Harold L. Merriman, C. Jayne Brahler, Kurt Jackson
Primary Institution: University of Dayton
Hypothesis
This study aimed to clarify the effects of age, sex, hertz, and time on four physical function indicators in community-dwelling older adults.
Conclusion
Both 2 Hz and 26 Hz whole-body vibration treatments improved physical performance measures in older adults, with significant differences observed between the two frequencies.
Supporting Evidence
- Timed get up-and-go and chair sit-and-reach performances improved post-WBV for both sexes.
- Significant differences were found between 2 Hz and 26 Hz treatments.
- Statistically significant interactions between age and gender were observed.
Takeaway
Older adults can improve their physical abilities by standing on a vibrating platform, and different vibration speeds can have different effects.
Methodology
A randomized three-period cross-over study design was used, with participants exposed to 2 min of whole-body vibration at either 2 Hz or 26 Hz, and performance measures recorded at various intervals post-exposure.
Potential Biases
Gender bias was noted as most previous studies focused on female subjects.
Limitations
Participants could guess which treatment they were receiving, and the assumption that 2 Hz would be a sham condition was challenged by its observed treatment effects.
Participant Demographics
32 community-dwelling older adults (10 males, 22 females; mean age 71.9 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p ≤ 0.01 for TGUG and CSR measures
Statistical Significance
p ≤ 0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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