Effect of low frequency whole body vibration for elderly, body composition and physical fitness

Abstract

Elderly population in nursing rehabilitation center is prone to diseases and disability. They are taken cared-off by health professionals to help function in day to day activities. Physiologically, elderly as they aged there bone mineral density (BMD), muscle strength and physical fitness will normally decline. In this study, the objective is to determine the effect of 3-month Low frequency Whole Body Vibration (WBV ) after the intervention was withdrawn for 3 months. Eight nursing home residents were non-randomly assigned to WBV group (5 subjects; 82.80±5.07 years) and Control (CON) group (3 subjects; 85.33±10.97 years). The WBV group underwent 3 months of semi-flexed standing exercise in reciprocal vibratory machine at 12.6 Hz, 3mm amplitude, 6 sets per session with 1 minute interval rest period for 3 times a week while the CON group continues to their daily routine with no vibration. Outcome measures were right hip and whole body BMD (g.cmˉ2) using Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA), maximal strength and average power concentric isokinetic knee extension and flexion at 60°/s and 180°/s by isokinetic dynamometer and physical fitness measures such as 6 minute walk test, arm curl test, chair sit and reach, back scratch and 8 foot up and go.At baseline, WBV and CON group were statistically significant difference on their weight status (P=0.043). After vibration was withdrawn for 3 months, WBV group significantly decreased (6%) in BMD wards triangle compared to CON group increased by 4% (P<0.05). No significant changes in maximal strength and average power on both groups. There are training-induced changes in 6 minute walk test and Back scratch were better compared to CON group (P=0.024 for 6 minute walk test and P= 0.043 for back scratch). No other significant changes were observed in both groups. In nursing rehabilitation center residents, 3 months low frequency WBV exercise has effect on physical fitness.