Whole Body Vibration & Parkinson’s Disease

 

Parkinson’s Disease is a slowly progressive neurologic disease characterized by a fixed inexpressive face, a tremor at rest, slowing of voluntary movements, a gait with short accelerating steps, peculiar posture and muscle weakness, caused by degeneration of an area of the brain called the basal ganglia, and by low production of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

Various Studies have been conducted and results indicate that whole body vibration can beneficial to patients with Parkinson’s disease.

In a 2008 study, the Tinetti score improved from 9.3 to 12.8 points in the WBV group. Equilibrium and gait improved in patients with PD receiving conventional WBV.[1]  A 2006 study showed comparable treatment effects, 14.7% improvement, also tremor and rigidity scores were improved by 25% and 24%.[2]  A 2005 study found that WBV can improve postural stability in Parkinson's disease.[3]

All studies showed that WBV can be regarded as an additional device in physical therapy in Parkinson’s disease.

About T-Zone Vibration Technology:

It's important to know that there are two types of Vibration technologies available; Linear/Lineal and Oscillating/Pivotal. However the difference between the two lies in how vibration is 'delivered' to the body.

T-Zone uses oscillating technology which is the technology that is most popular with chiropractors, physiotherapists and rehabilitation institutions. It is not recommended that linear vibration be used with people that have had major surgeries, other health issues, or older and younger users.

It is recommended that you first seek the advice from your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program, including whole body vibration.  For more information on WBV or clinical studies, please contact T-Zone Health.

 

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[1] Whole body vibration versus conventional physiotherapy to improve balance and gait in Parkinson's disease.  Ebersbach et al. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2008 Mar;89(3):399-403.

[2] The effects of random whole-body-vibration on motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease. Haas et al. Institute of Sport Sciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany; Department of Neurology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Frankfurt, German. NeuroRehabilitation 21 (2006) 29–36.

[3] Effects of random whole-body vibration on postural control in Parkinson's disease. Turbanski et. al, 2005, Res Sports Med. 2005 Jul-Sep;13(3):243-56.