Effects of Whole Body Vibration Training on Lumbar Proprioception and Postural Stability in Healthy Adults

Spinal proprioception is integral for maintaining trunk stability during the performance of both static and dynamic tasks. Proprioceptive feedback contributes towards joint position sense and postural stability. Several treatment approaches are available for improving proprioception, one such modality is whole body vibration. The evidence supporting the effectiveness of WBV in improving postural stability is scarce. Moreover, the population of interest for this study is healthy adults because this age group is often neglected in the research related to balance and postural stability however incidence of falls in this age group is high as per latest evidence. The aim of this study is to compare the effect of whole-body vibration along with core stability training versus core stability training alone on lumbar proprioception and postural stability in healthy adults.

Stability of the lumbar spine is required for static and dynamic functioning in daily life activities. Spinal proprioception is one of the major feedback mechanisms which contribute to spine positioning and trunk stability. Sense of proprioception is processed by the central nervous system based on the afferent information received by mechanoreceptors located in muscle spindles, Golgi tendon organs, and joint capsules. Proprioceptive feedback contributes toward joint position sense which is integral for trunk control, postural stability, and balance. Defective proprioceptive feedback can impair normal coordinated trunk motion which, in turn, can lead to decreased stability and a higher risk of musculoskeletal injury.

Several treatment approaches are available that aim to improve proprioception such as balance board, taping, bracing, manual therapy techniques, etc. However, with recent technological advancements, newer treatment modalities have been introduced that aim to improve joint position sense. One such modality is whole body vibration where the individual is exposed to mechanical vibrations through a device or a vibrating platform. It requires the individual to perform exercises on a platform vibrating between 1-50 Hz. The effects of WBV are currently being studied in the field of rehabilitation. Past research has established the neurophysiological basis of whole-body vibration on proprioception. Studies have demonstrated that training via WBV causes a continuous proprioceptive stimulation which enhances neuromuscular receptivity of the muscle spindle and helps improve muscle function. Existing literature has established the effectiveness of WBV to improve muscle strength, endurance, and power, moreover, it is also suitable for individuals who cannot perform strenuous exercise. However, there is conflicting evidence on the role of WBV on postural stability, and needs further exploration. Core strengthening is already a part of treatment regimens focused on improving trunk stability, and is backed by a vast literature. The current study is focused on comparing the effects of WBV along with core strengthening protocol verse core stability training alone in adults. If WBV is found effective, it can help in providing training protocols using WBV for improving muscle activation among untrained and enhancing performance among trained sports personnel. The main objective of this study is to compare the effect of whole-body vibration along with core stability training versus core stability training alone on lumbar joint position sense error and postural stability in healthy adults. For the purpose of this study, 42 participants meeting the inclusion criteria will be recruited. After baseline assessment participants will be randomly allocated to two groups i.e. Whole-Body Vibration along with core training and core stability training alone. Participants will receive 12 treatment sessions over the course of four weeks after which post treatment assessment of outcome measures will be carried out.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* Healthy young adults aged 18-25 years
* Both males and females willing to participate in the study
* No participation in a regular exercise or physical activity program
* Subjects with fall risk score (FRS) \> 1.5 on Biodex balance system

Exclusion Criteria:

* Individuals suffering from any acute or chronic co-morbidities of musculoskeletal, neurologic, cardiovascular or systemic origin
* Subjects with history of low back pain or any vestibular disorders, inner ear infections, or hearing loss, which could affect balance and proprioception
* Pregnant females