Whole Body Vibration Reduced Inflammation & Improves Metabolism

whole body vibration can help inflammation and metabolism

A recent study of whole body vibration found interesting changes that indicate the benefits of this therapy could go beyond musculoskeletal health. Whole body vibration is a form of exercise that involves sitting, standing, or moving on a vibrating platform that makes small repeated, rapid movements.

As in our clinic, whole body vibration has largely been used as part of exercise protocols to assist recovery from injuries or painful musculoskeletal conditions. Patients benefit from the ability to utilize the vibration from a very low intensity to a higher intensity level of exercise. However, the latest research goes beyond the usual rehab application to explore changes in inflammation and metabolism related to positive effects on the immune system and microbiome.

A crucial finding was a 17-fold increase in gut microbes that play a key role in reducing inflammation

The study, performed on two types of mice for comparison, measured a number of suspected changes that could have far reaching benefits for health. Those that were given whole body vibration  had measurable improvements in immune system cells and gut microbes that can reduce inflammation. This helps provide a potential explanation for why prior whole body vibration studies noted improvements in blood sugar regulation, cholesterol, and reduction in fatty liver. The group of mice that had been modified to be prone to diabetes, experienced even more significant improvement than the normal group.

Whole body vibration, even when performed passively with a patient just standing, appears to mimic other forms of exercise with resulting metabolic benefits. Other research has also indicated potential improvement in bone quality and quantity with whole body vibration, but this may require longer durations.

Further research could help us better understand how these beneficial changes occur in the body. With our current evidence of minimal risk of adverse effects and multiple benefits, whole body vibration is a therapy worth including in a rehab protocol for a variety of patients. It can especially be a good way to start exercise for those with severe limitations. 

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