Effects of Focal Muscle Vibration as a Countermeasure Against Hypoactivity-induced Neuromuscular Deconditioning

What this Trial Is About

Muscle deconditioning, which includes loss of muscle mass and strength, often occurs after long periods of reduced use of the lower limbs. This condition is worsened by reduced neural drive, not just muscle loss, highlighting the importance of treatments that improve neuromuscular function during immobilization. Researchers are evaluating the use of focal muscle vibration (FMV), a non-invasive method that activates muscle spindle afferents and causes brain adaptations, as a potential way to counteract this decline. Participants in this study will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will receive a local vibration countermeasure program targeting the knee extensor muscles using small, portable vibrator devices over 10 days to promote neural adaptations. The other group will not receive this vibration treatment, serving as the control group. This approach aims to prevent or reduce strength loss during a period of unilateral lower limb suspension. Throughout the study, participants will undergo measurements at multiple time points (Days 1, 7, 14, 28, and 33) including isometric and maximum voluntary force, jumping performance, postural balance, neuromuscular fatigue, force-velocity-endurance, voluntary activation level, cortico-spinal and spinal excitability, cortical activation, muscle volume, and blood tests for markers of bone and muscle remodeling as well as thrombotic risk. These assessments will help researchers understand the effects of FMV on neuromuscular function and muscle condition over time.

Muscle Vibration as a Countermeasure Against Hypoactivity-induced