Effective fibromyalgia treatment with whole body vibration
A program of whole-body vibration alongside a traditional exercise regime has been found to be more effective than the exercise regime alone in the treatment of fibromyalgia.
Whole-body vibration (WBV) involves standing on a machine with a flat plate which tilts slightly around an axle and sends vibrations through the entire body. The aim for the person standing on the machine is to keep the head and body steady and upright. In this way the person exercises all the muscles that keep the body in this position. The amount of time spent on the machine varies but even short sessions of only a few minutes are said to be of benefit.
In a study conducted by researchers at the University of Barcelona, Spain, women with fibromyalgia were split into three groups. For six weeks, one group undertook a traditional exercise regime involving aerobic activities, stretching, and relaxation techniques, another undertook the same regime but also had WBV sessions, while the final group did neither.