Does whole-body vibration improve risk of falls, balance, and heart rate variability in post-COVID-19 patients? A randomized clinical trial

J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2024 Jul:39:518-524. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2024.03.013. Epub 2024 Mar 13.

Abstract

Introduction: Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) can be a therapeutic recovery strategy for patients hospitalized for COVID-19.

Objectives: To evaluate the effects of a 36-session WBV protocol on the risk of falls, balance, mobility and heart rate variability (HRV).

Study design: A randomized clinical trial.

Methods: 13 patients affected by COVID-19, trained with WBV, 3×/week on alternate days, totaling 36 sessions, were evaluated before and after the intervention.

Results: WBV training at 2 mm and 4 mm amplitude resulted in a reduction in the risk of falls when compared to Sham (p = 0.023), with effect size of 0.530. No changes were observed for mobility and balance outcomes (p = 0.127) or for any of the HRV variables (p = 0.386).

Conclusion: WBV training reduced the risk of falls in post-COVID patients. No changes were observed regarding balance and mobility, nor for HRV.

Keywords: Autonomic nervous system diseases; Complementary therapeutic methods; Exercise; Lung diseases; SARS-CoV-2.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls* / prevention & control
  • Aged
  • COVID-19*
  • Female
  • Heart Rate* / physiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Postural Balance* / physiology
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Vibration* / therapeutic use