Effects Of Whole Body Vibration On Functional Independence In Older Adults

Abstract

Objective: To determine the effects of whole body vibration along with balance training in older individuals.

Methodology: This randomized control trial was conducted after the approval of Research Ethical Committee of Riphah International University. Total of 112 participants were recruited on the basis of inclusion criteria of both genders with controlled diabetes and hypertension, age ranging from 50 to 70 years, medium fall risk according to Berg balance score of 21-40. Patient with any type of surgical intervention which may hinder assessment or treatment, Individuals were randomly assigned to experimental (n=56) and control groups (n=56) through toss a coin method. Experimental group was given balance and strengthening exercises with whole body vibration whereas, control group received balance and strengthening exercises only. Individuals in both groups were assessed for their balance performance by using Berg Balance Scale, Functional Independence Scale, and Time Up and Go Test. These assessment tools were used before and after the treatment of 4 weeks’ protocol.

Results: Mann-Whitney U test was applied for comparison between control and experimental group. The p-values of Berg balance and functional independent measure were 0.001 and 0.003 respectively with statistically significant improvement whereas time up and go test showed statistically non-significant results with the p value 0.044 (less than 0.05)

Conclusion: This study concluded that Whole body vibrations along with balance training and strength were more effective in improving functional independence when compared to conventional physical therapy exercises training for strength and balance. Clinical Trial Number: NCT04963387