FASTER STRENGTH GAINS THROUGH NEUROLOGICAL ADAPTATION We know that the initial strength gain seen from any exercise program is through recruiting more muscle fi- bres rather than through hypertrophy. Since vibration exercise therapy works through an involuntary muscle contrac- tion, more muscles are initially recruit- ed through vibration than conventional strength training.6 This allows a de- conditioned patient with, for instance, chronic knee pain to undergo a safe and effective strength training program in less time, thereby giving the chiroprac- tor more time to spend on increasing ADLs and function. SHORTER TRAINING TIMES PER SESSION With the ability to produce up to 3,000 muscle contractions in one minute, ex- ercise time during a single session can be reduced. Research has already shown similar strength gains from 20 minutes of vibration exercise as compared to an hour of conventional training.7 This al- lows any chiropractor to effectively in- corporate a time-efficient rehabilitation program within their practice. ADDRESS THE CONCERNS OF A WIDER VARIETY OF PATIENT POPULATIONS Vibration exercise therapy is well suited as an effective exercise solution for those having diffi culty engaging in a conven- tional exercise program due to physi- cal limitations. Strength and flexibility training can initially be done in static, pain free range of motions. Patient pop- ulations that have benefi ted from this include those with multiple sclerosis, fi- bromyalgia, spinal cord injury, osteopo- rosis, and Parkinson’s Disease, to name a few. 8, 9,10,11,12 EXPANDING PRACTICE OPPORTUNITIES Vibration exercise therapy is not only available to be utilized as a modality in chiropractic offi ces. Since a strength training program can take as little as 15 minutes a day, some patients opt to continue with vibration exercise after being discharged from their chiroprac- tic care. These people not only want to maintain the gains they have made with their chronic conditions, but also want www.canadianchiropractor.ca to look good. It’s no surprise that small vibration studios are starting to pop up and will continue to increase in popularity. A chiropractor is in a prime position to be able to utilize this as an enhancement to his/her practice. CHOOSING THE RIGHT TYPE OF VIBRATION PLATFORM Prior to purchasing a vibration platform, it’s always advisable to do your research. With all the choices in the marketplace, it’s sometimes confusing to understand what the key features are that separate the quality products from imitations. In addition, it’s important to understand the features that are essential to address the needs of a particular patient popula- tion, as opposed to the fi tness or sports performance population. The following paragraphs outline some key features that should be present in a vibration platform. 1) Consistent dosimetry When it comes to such devices as lasers or ultrasound, every clinician knows the importance of having devices that provide a consistent dose. A laser that changes the wavelength from one patient to the next is unacceptable, in health-care standards. Vibration exercise therapy is no different. The frequencies and ampli- tudes that are being generated are very specifi c. Regardless of the weight of the patient, the dose should be identical. With vibration exercise, this can sometimes be an issue. The vibration platform needs to be consistent with the various weight loads. This is especially important considering certain frequen- cies are optimal for muscle contraction. If the platform is not able to provide this consistent frequency, the patient may be subjected to a dose of exercise that may be ineffective. 2) Ability to handle heavy loads Some clinicians argue that they are not dealing with very heavy people. How- ever, one should note that the heavier the load a vibration platform can take, the less chance there is of it being worn down and breaking. The reason for heavy loads is simple; I’ve seen two therapists standing on the platform with a spinal Vibration Therapy Benefits • Accelerate strength gains • Effective exercise with minimal stress on joints, ligaments, and tendons • Time-efficient rehabilitation • Higher compliance than conventional exercise CLINIC BENEFITS • Attract new types of patient populations • Increase exercise compliance • Rehabilitate effectively in minimal space • Expand practice opportunities CHECKLIST TO CHOOSING THE RIGHT VIBRATION PLATFORM: 1. The platform provides consistent dosimetry settings to ensure safety. 2. The platform is able to handle large weight loads to ensure reliability. 3. The platform is big enough to accommodate various patient sizes and rehab positions. 4. The vibration direction is mainly vertical to minimize stress on the joints and ligaments. 5. There is support and training behind the technology so that you can access protocols that are specifi c for your patient population. CANADIAN CHIROPRACTOR | SEPTEMBER 2008 • 19
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