COPD and Whole Body Vibration

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) encompasses several diseases including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Individuals can have both diseases, which affect the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. Emphysema results in damage to the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs where oxygen is transferred to the blood. This makes it difficult for the blood to become fully oxygenated, compromising the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to various tissues. Chronic bronchitis causes the airways to become red, irritated and blocked by mucous. Inflammation and mucous results in a narrowing of the air passage; restricting the amount of air entering the lungs.   Smoking is the main cause of COPD, but other causes including genetic disorders, exposure to second hand smoke, air pollution and multiple chest infections as a child can cause COPD.  Symptoms include shortness of breath, productive cough (increased mucous production), fatigue, and frequent chest infections. There is no cure for COPD, but treatments include quitting smoking, avoiding smoke filled and highly polluted areas, medication, and engaging in a COPD specific exercise program (Pulmonary Rehabilitation). Medication may be in the form of pills, inhalers and supplemental oxygen.

The Canadian Lung Association (CLA) recommends Pulmonary Rehabilitation for individuals with COPD to help them breathe more easily and to learn how to better manage their disease ¹. The CLA’s website highlights benefits of Pulmonary Rehabilitation findings from a review study. These benefits include a reduction in shortness of breath and fatigue, improved mood and a greater sense of control over the disease ¹. In general, the CLA recommends that individuals with COPD engage in an exercise routine that includes stretching, aerobic exercise and strength training ². Benefits to regular exercise include more efficient use of oxygen, less time in a hospital, improved mood and sleep, maintenance of a healthy body weight and greater independence ². One study investigated whether individuals with COPD were exercising enough to meet the standards suggested by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) which includes walking more than 30 minutes a day. When comparing inactive individuals to those who were active, the inactive individuals had an impaired pulmonary function, a reduced exercise tolerance, and had poorer scores on tests that measure disease severity ³. When beginning to exercise or adding new exercises to an existing routine it is important that an individual speaks with a physician. Exercise should be introduced slowly, and individuals with COPD should be aware of flare-ups, avoid sudden bursts of activity, perform exercise at a moderate intensity, and exercise in a controlled environment paying attention to the quality of air ².   

Currently, there is no research examining the affects of Whole Body Vibration (WBV) on individuals with COPD. A study looking at individuals with cystic fibrosis found improvements in muscle function but no differences in lung function between WBV and control groups ⁴. In general, WBV has been found to improve muscle strength, blood flow, bone density, and balance in certain populations *. WBV may be a beneficial addition to an individual with COPD’s exercise routine; however, it is essential that he/she discuss WBV with a physician first. It is important that the physician understands WBV so that they can help an individual determine if the benefits outweigh any potential risks or contraindications specific to his/her medical history.

Once cleared by a physician to use WBV, it should be initiated at a reduced intensity and duration. This will allow an individual to adjust to the machine and monitor his/her COPD symptoms. As with any exercise an individual should work within his/her level of tolerance and ability. An individual should find an intensity and duration that does not exacerbate any COPD symptoms including shortness of breath. Intensity and/or duration should be lowered if WBV results in worsening of symptoms. If symptoms persist, exercise on the WBV platform should be discontinued and the new symptoms should be discussed with a physician. The intensity and duration can be increased once an individual becomes comfortable with the machine. Exercises can also be added at the appropriate level of fitness. In general, if an individual experiences any pain, dizziness or shortness of breath while using WBV it should be discontinued immediately.

References

1.       Treatment: Pulmonary Rehabilitation (Respiratory Rehab),Retrieved March 31, 2010.

2.       Living with COPD: Exercise, Retrieved March 31, 2010

3.       Pitta F, Troosters T, Probst VS, Lucas S, Decramer M, Gosselink R. 2006. Potential consequences for stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients who do not get the recommended minimum daily amount of physical activity, Jornal Brasileiro de Pneumologia, 32(4), 301-8.

4.       Rietschel E, van Koningsbruggen S, Fricke O, Semler O, Schoenau E. 2008. Whole body vibration: a new therapeutic approach to improve muscle function in cystic fibrosis? International Journal of Rehabilitation Research, 31(3), 253-6.

*Please see the T-Zone Vibration Technology manual for a list of references

Various models and machines on the market have been used for the purpose of conducting research.  Also, a variety of frequencies (speeds) and amplitudes (platform variation) which may or may not be known to us have been used.  We do not guarantee or claim users will achieve similar results with our T-Zone Whole Body Vibration machine.

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