Study Comparing Whole Body Vibration Therapy Plus Usual Care to Usual Care Alone to Improve Muscle Health in Older Adults

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying older adults aged 65 and above who are pre-frail or mildly frail to evaluate the effects of Whole Body Vibration Training WBVT combined with usual care compared to usual care alone. This trial aims to improve muscle mass, strength, and function, addressing the challenges of traditional exercise programs that many older adults find difficult to follow due to physical or cognitive limitations. The study focuses on measuring muscle strength and physical function changes after interventions. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one group will receive WBVT along with usual care, and the other will receive only usual care. WBVT sessions use the Galileo Vibration machine three times a week for four weeks, progressively increasing vibration frequency, squat angles, and session duration. Both groups will receive instruction on Otago exercises to be done at home, with encouragement to continue aerobic activities like brisk walking. Exercise and falls diaries will be kept for up to three months. Participants will undergo assessments before the intervention, two weeks after, and three months after. These include measurements of knee extension strength, hand grip strength, muscle mass, gait speed, chair stands, calf circumference, physical activity levels, and quality of life. Falls, emergency visits, hospitalizations, and mortality will also be tracked for one year. The study includes surveys and interviews to evaluate feasibility and accessibility, with adherence monitored by reminders and diaries.

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Whole Body Vibration Therapy With Usual Care and Usual Care to Improve Muscle Health in Older Adults