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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a type of degenerative syndrome that causes impaired physical function, decreased walking, imbalance, spasticity, sensory impairment, muscle weakness, fatigue, and demyelination of the central nervous system. The purpose of this review was to critically examine available studies on the efficacy of whole-body vibration (WBV) in patients with MS during rehabilitation training to increase strength, balance, and functional mobility. An organized literature search was performed on databases from various sources, including PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and EMBASE, to identify relevant randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Eight studies were finally selected based on exclusion and inclusion criteria. Attempts were made to identify factors affecting the improvement in muscle strength, balance, and functional mobility in MS patients as a result of WBV. A meta-analysis was performed if two or more studies measured the same outcome of interest. The meta-analysis found that the WBV intervention showed significant improvement over control groups in Body Balance Score (BBS) (MD = $-$2.86, 95%CI = $-$5.29 $-$ 0.43; $Z=2.31$, $p=0.02$, heterogeneity ($I^2=91$%). In addition, walking endurance (6MWT) favored control groups over WBV intervention (MD $=59.86$, 95%CI $=20.3$$-$ 99.41; $Z$ = 2.97, $p=0.003$). Timed-Up-and-Go Test (TUG) and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) ($p>0.05$) had no significant effect on WBV. Restoration of balance and functional mobility appeared to respond better to WBV with additional exercise protocols compared to WBV alone. Although there is evidence of an overall effect of WBV on strength and some measures of balance and mobility, its impact remains inconclusive. Therefore, more robust RCTs examining exposure to WBV on balance and functional mobility in patients with MS are warranted.

This paper presents a finite-segment, human-body model for studying whole body vibration and for studying human response to jarring and jolting (impulses). The model is a multibody system based upon previously developed models for simulating vehicle occupant response in crashes. The model has 17 bodies representing the various limbs of the human body. Nonlinear springs and dampers are used at the joints to represent soft tissue restraint forces.

The model is tested and validated with experimental data. It is then illustrated with application with random whole-body vibration and impulsive loading simulating jarring and jolting.

The purpose of this study was to investigate an effective recovery method on muscle function and blood of lactate level after maximal isotonic exercise. This study was conducted in 36 adult males. The group was divided into three groups. Sling therapy group (SG, $n=12$), sling therapy group with whole body vibration continuous (SAVG, $n=12$) and sling therapy group with whole body vibration in intermittent (SIVG, $n=12$) were randomly composed. Sling exercise therapy using supine position and whole-body vibration of 10Hz, 5mm were performed. Lactate level and muscle function during the rest, fatigue and recovery period were measured and then maximal exercise using back extension was performed to induce fatigue. After 15min, sling with whole body vibration was conducted in two groups, respectively. Blood lactate was measured a few hours before and after of vibration. Also, muscle function between only sling exercise therapy condition, sling with whole body vibration condition in all time and sling with whole body vibration condition in intermittent time were analyzed. Lactate level was recorded by lactate measurement device. Isokinetic of lumber joint extension and flexion Peak torque/body weight, total work (J), average power (W) and acceleration time (m/s²) were measured using isokinetic dynamometer. The recovery method of sling with whole body vibration showed positive changes in physical characteristics. Isokinetic contraction of peak torque/body weight (N$\cdot$m), average power (Watts) and total work (J) were significantly increased in the recovery step for SIVG. Lactate level was significantly decreased for SIVG as compared with SG and SAVG. This study demonstrated that sling exercise therapy with intermittent time whole body vibration could provide a positive effect on the efficient recovery of muscle function and higher reduction of lactate after maximal isotonic exercise.

With the burgeoning elderly population, there is an escalating demand for effective and safe exercise programs to enhance physical performance and avert age-related complications. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise program on the physical performance and postural balance of older adults. The study enlisted 21 participants aged 65 and older, divided into three groups: WBV, foam mat (FM), and control. Over four weeks, participants engaged in a structured exercise regimen designed to improve lower limb muscle strength, cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, coordination, and postural balance. The low-impact, elderly-friendly program included resistance exercises tailored to each group’s conditions. Pre- and post-program evaluations comprised physical performance tests (chair stand, 2-min step, chair sit-and-reach, figure-of-8 walk) and postural balance assessments (limit of stability (LOS), Timed Up and Go (TUG), One Leg Stance (OLS)). Results showed significant improvements across all groups, with the WBV group exhibiting the most pronounced enhancements. WBV group improvements included a 62.8% increase in lower-limb muscle strength and a 31.7% rise in cardiovascular endurance. The WBV group also demonstrated the greatest advancements in postural stability and dynamic balance, as indicated by significant changes in OLS and TUG test times. These findings suggest WBV exercises can effectively enhance physical performance and balance in older adults, presenting a promising alternative to traditional exercise programs that may impose greater physical burdens. Further research with larger sample sizes and controlled variables is recommended to confirm these benefits and refine WBV exercise protocols.