Whole-body vibration therapy is a form of therapy that involves a machine with a vibrating platform. You sit, stand, or lie on the machine as it vibrates, transmitting energy to the body. The machine causes the muscles to contract and relax rapidly, several times in a second. The activity causes the individual to experience a form of exertion. Knowing what the therapy involves will help you determine if it is right for you.

 

GETTING VIBRATION THERAPY

It is still not clear whether vibration therapy can qualify as a form of exercise, offering health and fitness benefits. Advocates of the therapy claim that 15 minutes of vibration three times a week can help with weight loss.

Vibration therapy can also help improve flexibility, burn fat, reduce muscle soreness, and improve blood flow. Other reported benefits are helping build strength and reducing cortisol, the stress hormone. Comprehensive research on the benefits of whole-body vibration therapy is still lacking. 

BENEFITS OF WHOLE-BODY VIBRATION 

Studies have shown that the whole-body vibration process can help improve muscle strength. The studies also show that when used alongside cutting back on calories, it can aid in weight loss. Vibration therapy goes beyond fitness and weight loss. When done correctly, the vibration provides some health benefits. 

Performed under expert supervision, the therapy can help reduce back pain and bone loss. It can also help improve balance and strength among older adults. It is important to talk to a health professional before using the therapy. This is especially the case for anyone who is pregnant or those with health issues.

HOW VIBRATION THERAPY WORKS

There are two main forms of vibration therapy. There is whole-body therapy and localized therapy. Whole-body vibration therapy involves placing the entire body on the vibrating machine. For localized vibration, therapists use a hand-held vibrating machine on particular parts of the body. 

As the vibrations are transmitted throughout the body, the muscles contract and relax. The vibrations can also cause the production of more osteoblasts, the bone-producing cells. The intensity and direction of the vibrations will often determine how effective the therapy is. 

RISKS OF WHOLE-BODY VIBRATION 

It is important to understand the risks associated with whole-body vibration therapy. Body vibration can be harmful if the intensity of vibrations is too fast or high. Rapid movement can cause severe back pain or lumbar injuries. 

It is very important to receive the therapy under supervision to avoid dangerous effects. Some people are advised to avoid the therapy. These include pregnant women, those with advanced diabetes, and people with heart disease. Individuals who are on blood-thinning medications should not get vibration therapy. 

GETTING MEDICAL ADVICE 

It is very important to talk to a doctor before getting whole-body vibration therapy. The therapy benefits bone mass and muscle strength. It can be useful for older adults but only under supervision. Vibration therapy can have some benefits for people with Parkinson’s disease, but the long-term effects are still unclear.

 

For more on whole-body vibration therapy, contact Sanford Laser Lipo at our office in Sanford, Florida. You can call (407) 278-8409 today to schedule an appointment.