Article

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) training in
individuals after stroke. DESIGN: A double-blind randomized controlled study with
assessments pre- and posttraining. SETTING: A university hospital rehabilitation
department. PARTICIPANTS: Participants (N=31; mean age +/- SD, 62+/-7 y; 6-101 mo
poststroke) were randomized to an intervention group or a control group.
INTERVENTIONS: Supervised WBV training (2 sessions/wk for 6wk; 12 repetitions of
40-60s WBV per session).
The intervention group trained on a vibrating platform
with a conventional amplitude (3.75 mm) and the control group on a "placebo"
vibrating platform (0.2mm amplitude); the frequency was 25Hz on both platforms.
All participants and examiners were blinded to the amplitudes of the 2 platforms.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary outcome measures were isokinetic and isometric
knee muscle strength (dynamometer). Secondary outcome measures were balance (Berg
Balance Scale), muscle tone (Modified Ashworth Scale), gait performance (Timed Up
& Go, comfortable gait speed, fast gait speed, and six-minute walk tests), and
perceived participation (Stroke Impact Scale). RESULTS: There were no significant
differences between the 2 groups after the WBV training. Significant but small
improvements (P<.05) in body function and gait performance were found within both
groups, but the magnitude of the changes was in the range of normative variation.
CONCLUSIONS: Six weeks of WBV training on a vibration platform with conventional
amplitude was not more efficient than a placebo vibrating platform. Therefore,
the use of WBV training in individuals with chronic stroke and mild to moderate
disability is not supported.
CI - Copyright (c) 2012 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by
Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS