Using Whole Body Vibration in Physical Therapy and Sport

Using Whole Body Vibration in Physical Therapy and Sport is an innovative new manual demonstrating the application of vibration technology to the treatment of pathologies such as osteoporosis, osteopenia, stroke and different musculoskeletal disorders. It covers pathology on the upper and lower extremities as well as the whole spine.

New treatment strategies are practically and logically presented with recommended exercises and accompanying instructions which can be applied using the vibration platforms. Rationale is given for selected vibration frequencies, amplitudes and modes for the duration and frequency of the exercise session.

The manual is grounded in evidence underpinned by a thorough literature review (including a balanced view of both pros and cons) and clinical cases. The authors present clinical treatment parameters that are evidence-based and have supportive physiological rationale that is consistent with the nature of the pathology being treated. The text is further supported by online access to over 35 video clips demonstrating the possible treatment exercises.

This must-have guide for clinicians and therapists enables use of whole body vibration as a treatment and ensures best practice throughout.

"Over the past 5–10 years, I have received hundreds of phone calls and e-mails from individuals worldwide who are seeking health care advice on the benefits of WBV for conditions ranging from motor weaknesses to osteoporosis to autism. Unfortunately most health care professionals, like myself, are faced with more questions than answers when it comes to WBV exercise. Thus, these authors have helped to fill this information void by providing the first in-depth analysis and synthesis of the growing body of research on whole body vibration. They have coupled the results of numerous published studies with their own vast experience to provide an overview of the biomechanical and physiological effects of whole body vibration, as well as training guidelines to address a variety of physical impairments and functional goals. Whether your professional background is in sport science or rehabilitation, you will find evidence-based treatment parameters for improving muscle strength and power, soft tissue flexibility, balance and postural stability, bone density, peripheral circulation, and more. In chapters 5 and 6, the authors have also provided an illustrated, stepwise guide to help the novice practitioner utilize this new exercise modality in a safe and effective manner. These authors, and the researchers whose work they have drawn from, have given us an excellent start. Like any initial work, this text is not necessarily an exhaustive review on the subject, but it does provide the scientific basis, clinical rationale, and treatment parameters needed to incorporate WBV into a physical therapy treatment plan or athletic training regimen with a reasonable assurance of success. And, hopefully, the outcomes experienced by these patients and athletes will be documented and added to the burgeoning body of knowledge that is needed for WBV to gain universal acceptance as a standard part of our clinical practice."

Martha R. Hinman, PT, EdD, Professor, Dept. of Physical TherapyDirector, Transitional DPT ProgramHardin-Simmons UniversityAbilene, TX 79698-6065, USA325-670-5828