A pilot study on Semi-Recumbent Vibration Exercise in Older Adults with Decreased Physical Function – Methodology, Feasibility and Safety

Introduction:

Older adults with decreased physical function are at risk for further decline in part due limited ability to engage in regular exercise. Investigation of effective approaches to exercise in this vulnerable population is needed to improve functional capacity and muscle performance. Objective: To investigate the feasibility and safety of semi-recumbent vibration exercise in older adults with decreased physical function living in a residential care apartment complex (RCAC).

Methods:

Thirty-two RCAC residents, age 70 and older, with short physical performance battery (SBBP) score of ≤9 or ≤2 in any of the three test components were randomly assigned to a crossover-design study investigating the effectiveness of semi-recumbent vibration exercise on muscle outcomes. The study consisted of two 8-week training periods (vibration and control treatments) with a four-week wash-out period in between. The primary outcome measures were retention and adherence rates and adverse events.

Results:

Seven participants dropped out with a retention rate of 78%. Adherence rate was 79.7% during the vibration sessions and 78.6% during the control sessions. Thirty-eight adverse were reported by the participants. Only mild muscle soreness and knee pain were the only adverse events that were deemed to be related to the vibration treatment. Only one participant dropped out due to worsening knee pain. No severe adverse events were related to the study.

Discussion:

Semi-recumbent vibration exercise seems feasible, well-tolerated and appeared to be safe in elderly RCAC residents with reduced physical function. Future studies need to examine the effect of this type of exercise on physical/muscle function, mobility, falls and activities of daily living.