Lung Cancer and WBV

Relative contraindications to Whole Body Vibration (WBV) include tumors and several cardiac issues. Relative contraindications are recommended to ensure that an individual discusses WBV with an appropriate doctor to ensure that any benefits to using WBV outweigh potential risks.

Cancer is considered a contraindication because there are no clinical tests looking at the effects of WBV and individuals with cancer. These tests would be considered unethical as they can potentially exacerbate a life threatening condition. The concern of using WBV with a tumor is the increase in blood flow that occurs from using the platform. Cancer can travel easily within the body and because WBV increases circulation, and stimulates the lymphatic system, the concern is that rapid spreading of cancer cells may occur.

Cardiac dysrhythmias and cardiac disorders are contraindications for similar reasons; a lack of research in this population. Also, as with any new exercise routine, an individual with known cardiac complications needs to proceed with caution and must follow instructions/guidelines recommended by his physician. This is to ensure that the benefits of exercise can be achieved without putting the heart at risk.

Absolute contraindications are medical complications that prevent an individual from using WBV, as the risks outweigh any potential benefit. Such contraindications include tumors with metastases in the musculoskeletal system. It is important to ensure that if tumors are present they are isolated and have not metastasized to other parts of the body.  Another absolute contraindication to WBV is an acute or chronic deep vein thrombosis and other blood clotting disorders. Post-operatively, DVT’s are potential risks and can be related to other cardiac issues. It is important that an individual does not have an untreated DVT prior to beginning WBV. With a treated DVT it is still essential to get a physician’s clearance prior to starting WBV because of the potential risks.

If the individual is cleared by his physician to use WBV it is important to monitor his heart rate. This is due to the fact that studies have shown significant increases in heart rate with the use of WBV.

Bogaerts AC, Delecluse C, Claessens AL, Troosters T, Boonen S, Verschueren SM. 2009. Effects of whole body vibration training on cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength in older individuals (a 1-year randomised controlled trial), 38(4), 448-54.

It would also be beneficial for the individual to perform WBV under the supervision of an appropriate health care provider to monitor his response to the platform and look for any adverse reactions. Any exercise guidelines/restrictions put in place by his physician should also be followed. If the heart rate becomes higher than the recommended value or if any symptoms related to the individual’s condition worsen with the use of WBV it should be discontinued immediately and symptoms should be discussed with his physician. An individual should not experience any pain, dizziness or shortness of breath while using WBV. If any of these symptoms occur exercise on the platform should be discontinued immediately.

“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.”

Scoop & Save Natural Health Foods

3133 Portage Ave.

Winnipeg, MB R3K 0W4

888-1967 myscoopandsave@shaw.ca