KNEES AND HIPS
There have been many questions about the safe effects of WBV (Whole Body Vibration) on:
1. Strengthening the knees and hips.
2. Knee and hip replacement implants.
3. The prevention of knee & hip replacements.
It's important to note that in our culture we exercise in a very linear fashion. Many people will only walk short distances using only limited muscle groups each day. If you look out your window, you will likely see a world of very even or flat surfaces. Our bodies rarely get the opportunity to use lateral or sideways movements. WBV stimulates and recruits stabilizing muscles in a friendly and gentle way, improving balance and co-ordination.
There is an old expression, "If you don't use it, you'll lose it"...In this case if we don't use some of our body parts, we will lose them. This is the case with our knees and hips. We are losing them with knee and hip replacements every day, partly because we are not using them.
The sideways action of a Pivotal/Oscillating machine is the most effective way of targeting, stimulating, and strengthening these weak points in our design. There is overwhelming evidence of WBV improving bone density in astronauts 40 years ago or recently with studies from the Journal of Bone & Mineral Research Vibration/Bone Mass Density Improvement of the hip(Volume 19, Nov. 2004) and also the Berlin Bed rest Study (BBR) proved that 10 minutes of vibration training 6 times a week prevented muscle and bone loss in total bed rest over 55 days (Rittweger et al 2004 [3], Felsenberg et al 2004 [4], Bleeker et al 2005 [5], Blottner et al 2006 [36]). It is unquestionable that WBV can be effective in preventing knee and hip replacement!
With people that already have had knee or hip replacement, Oscillating/Pivotal Vibration Technology can safely benefit your rehabilitation. Physiotherapists, Chiropractors and other health care professionals have used WBV to help strengthen the surrounding muscles post surgery. (Please note that prosthetic devices are not included in this analysis.)
With proper supervised care and a common sense approach, moderate Oscillating Vibration is beneficial after the implants have healed. It is difficult to determine when to begin WBV Therapy due to the variables involved. (age, weight, fitness level, other health issues, surgery complications, if the implant has bonded well with the bone etc...) A minimum of 8 weeks is suggested.
For those using Vibration Technology to rehab a knee or hip replacement, it is highly recommended to purchase or use an Oscillating/Pivotal machine which is non intrusive to the healing joints and muscles. Also, make sure that the unit is CSA approved and has supporting arms so the patient can distribute some of the body weight onto the arms, helping to relieve some pressure in sensitive situations. Holding the arms of the machine helps the important 'squatting'
position which also helps to naturally distribute body weight.
Scoop & Save Natural Health Foods
3133 Portage Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3K 0W4
888-1967 myscoopandsave@shaw.ca