Recently a community member bought one of your machines, I would like to know if it will benefit my aunt. 11 years ago she had an operation and they placed steel rods in her back, she still has moderate to severe back pain. Would she be able to use this machine? Would it help with her back pain?
There is no research available to look at the effects of Whole Body Vibration (WBV) on postoperative spine surgeries. Research has shown benefits to using WBV with low back pain 1. The study was done on a specific population and therefore the benefits cannot be assumed for other individuals.
It is important to note that spinal implants are listed by some WBV manufacturers as absolute contraindications. Although research has shown that WBV has helped some individuals with low back pain, chronic low back pain is also considered a contraindication to using the platform. Contraindications are recommended due to the lack of research in a particular area or when there is a known consequence. Without the research it cannot be determined if the benefits to using WBV would outweigh any potential risks. The concern with spinal implants when using WBV is that the vibration may cause migration of the hardware. With low back pain the concern is that there may be damage to the spine. Anyone with ongoing medical issues and a previous surgical history should discuss the use of WBV with her/his physician before adding it to an exercise routine. It is essential that the physician understands WBV so they can help an individual determine whether it is an appropriate type of exercise to pursue, given her/his specific medical issues.
If an individual is cleared by her/his physician to begin WBV, it should be started at a reduced intensity and duration. This is so an individual can monitor their response to the machine and change in symptoms closely. If any symptoms related to an individual’s medical issues arise or increases or if any new symptoms occur, WBV should be discontinued immediately and the new symptoms should be discussed with a physician.
In summary, it may not be appropriate for this individual to pursue WBV as a form of exercise due to the spinal implants and continued issues with moderate to severe low back pain. Discussion with a physician is essential.
References
1. Cardinale M, Pope MH. 2003. The effects of whole body vibration on humans: dangerous or advantageous? Acta Physiologica Hungarica, 90(3), 195-206.
Scoop & Save Natural Health Foods
3133 Portage Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3K 0W4
888-1967 myscoopandsave@shaw.ca