Vibration Exercise for Fibromyalgia Relief...hope for the future?

"Fat belt machine" circa 1960s

Researchers from Indiana University found that whole-body vibration exercise may reduce pain symptoms and improve aspects of quality of life in individuals diagnosed with the musculoskeletal condition.

Here were are, fifty years later...and a new twist to this concept has emerged. Researchers from an Indiana University presented results from their studies at a May 2014 meeting of the American College of Sports Medicine in Orlando, Florida. Their findings suggest that whole body vibration exercise may reduce pain symptoms and improve the overall quality of life for patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia.

“Our findings are promising, but it is not entirely clear whether these improvements were the result of added vibration or just the effects of being more active," Tony Kaleth, lead author of the study and associate professor in the School of Physical Education and Tourism Management at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, said in a statement.

Early research using modern vibration exercise for fibromyalgia yields promising results.

For patients with fibromyalgia, regular exercise participation is one of the best known therapies. Many patients, however, are averse to participating over fears of pain that may be associated with increased physical activity. As a result, many patients continue to spiral downward, further exacerbating a sedentary lifestyle that often leads to a worsening of symptoms.

"Over time, this can lead to additional weight gain, as well as accompanying chronic health conditions associated with obesity, such as high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes," he said.

Vibration training involves sitting, standing or lying on a machine with a vibrating platform. This vibrating mechanism causes the muscles to contract and relax during exercise. At this point in time, these machines are mostly seen in research centers, but are beginning to appear in fitness centers, and commercial models are being sold on the open market.

The jury is still out as to whether or not vibration technology will be a breakthrough treatment for people with fibromyalgia. We can only hope!

Sources: ostkcdn.com;University Herald; Hello Giggles

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