Effects of whole body vibration exercise on the neuromuscular system: a brief review

  • Enio Gonçalves Junior Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre-RS, Brasil.
  • Bruno Manfredini Baroni Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre-RS, Brasil.
  • Marco Aurélio Vaz Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre-RS, Brasil.
Keywords: Physical exercise, Training, Muscle strength, Aging

Abstract

The use of vibration platforms for training purposes and rehabilitation has taken large proportions in recent years. Its potential to stimulate the muscle apparatus has been studied while evaluating acute and chronic adaptations in different populations. Significant alterations in muscular strength, power, flexibility, bone mineral density, besides other variables, are observed in the literature. However, it is also important to consider that exaggerated exposure to vibration can cause neurological, vascular and musculoskeletal damage to the human organism. Thus, this manuscript aims at discussing: (1) up-to-date information on physiological and biomechanical mechanisms related to the neuromuscular responses to the vibratory stimulus; (2) potential problems relating to human exposition to vibration; and (3) the reasons why vibration can be considered useful in the context of training and rehabilitation. The results of the reviewed scientific studies suggest that vibration training has great application potential in the fields of physical fitness and rehabilitation exercises. The complete understanding of the neuromuscular mechanism of vibration responses or adaptive response to whole body vibration still needs further investigation. A limitation found in the reviewed literature is the lack of specific protocols for each population and their effort type, taking into consideration the variables involved such as frequency, displacement, magnitude and time of exposition. It is also necessary a better understanding regarding the negative effects of vibration in the human body so that we can use, in a safe way, the vibration training as a stimulus for physical training.

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Published
2012-12-09
How to Cite
Junior, E. G., Baroni, B. M., & Vaz, M. A. (2012). Effects of whole body vibration exercise on the neuromuscular system: a brief review. Brazilian Journal of Exercise Prescription and Physiology, 6(36). Retrieved from https://www.rbpfex.com.br/index.php/rbpfex/article/view/462
Section
Scientific Articles - Original