Whole body vibration (WBV) originated in Russia nearly 50 years ago, developing into treatment for bone and muscle wasting that occurred in cosmonauts from spending time in zero gravity. A study published in March of 2008 compared the effects of WBV and conventional physical therapy (PT) on disturbances of balance and gait in persons with Parkinson's disease (PD). All of the patients in both groups showed improvement in mobility and postural stability.

In its early usage, WBV resulted in the cosmonauts regaining their muscle strength with impressive speed. Observation eventually led to the machine being used to train athletes. While WBV is still used for muscle training, its use for rehabilitation has also been recognized for patients with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and stroke. The patient stands on a vibrating platform that tilts up and down, alternately thrusting the right and left leg upward. The motion requires the person to use the body's balance mechanisms. While the platform is tilting, continuous vibration is emitted up through the platform. The vibration can be set to different frequencies to get the desired effect of muscle relaxation or muscle toning.

The purpose of the recent test was to find the best method for PD patients who were not adequately helped by medication used for PD (levodopa). All of the subjects in the study received a comprehensive inpatient program of standard therapy that included relaxation techniques (group exercises focusing on muscle-stretching, relaxation, and body perception), speech therapy, and occupational therapy. In addition, one group received balance training using WBV, while the other group received standard balance training, including exercises on a tilt board.

Even though the study concluded that WBV was not more effective than standard conventional PT for improvement of balance and mobility in persons with PD, the authors felt that WBV was worth investigating further since it has been shown to be effective in other neuromuscular disorders. It has also proven its benefit in helping to treat and prevent loss of bone density from inactivity.

For further information, refer to: "Whole Body Vibration Versus Conventional Physiotherapy to Improve Balance and Gait in Parkinson's Disease;" Ebersbach, G MD, Edler, D MD, Kaufhold, O, Wissel, J MD; Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 89(3), March 2008.