Microsoft Word - Ms Abstract For Acpsm

Acute effects of whole body vibration – a Multiple Sclerosis case study Location: Power Plate Ireland Training Centre, Mount Merrion, Co. Dublin Carried out by: Patrick Reynolds MSc, B.A. Background: This case study reports the effects of four sessions of whole body vibration (WBV) over a five day period on a 51 year old female suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for 20 years. MS is a progressive demyelinating condition that often presents with physical limitations such as poor motor control and diminished peripheral sensation. It is hypothesised WBV increases the firing rate of pressure sensitive afferents and muscle spindle afferents and invokes reflex muscle activity through the tonic (1) vibration reflex ; and as such could have acute and chronic benefits for sufferers of neurological conditions. Case Description: The subject reported symptoms of lack of sensation in the feet, severe cramping of the hamstring and calf muscles of the right leg and poor control of shoulders. She used a crutch to aid with mobility and walked with pronounced limp. Study Design: The study consisted of four 30 min visits to the centre. All exercise was performed on a Power Plate® machine, which produces uniform vertically oscillating sinusoidal vibrations at frequencies between 30 – 50 Hz and at amplitudes of either 2 or 4 mm. Each visit consisted of passive and active stretching for the muscles of the lower limbs, active plantarflexion on the surface of the vibrating plate both seated and standing, and some isometric holds for upper body muscle groups using transmission straps attached to the plate. Exercises were performed for 30s at a setting of 30Hz at amplitude of 2mm. Results: Immediately after each exercise session the patient reported return of sensation to her feet, which reportedly lasted 6 hours. The cramping of the lower limbs had sufficiently eased to allow her to walk with a normal but laboured gait and she reported decreased tension in her neck and shoulders. These effects were also reportedly temporary. Discussion: In the case of this particular individual WBV appeared to have a significant transient therapeutic effect. Further study should be done on larger groups to determine the exact effects and responses of the nervous system to WBV.

(1) Vibrations and their applications in sport: A review. V B Issurin, Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness; Sep 2005