Effect of whole-body vibration training on physical fitness and postural control in working-age patients on haemodialysis

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of whole-body vibration training on working-age people on haemodialysis. Design: Consecutive case series study. Subjects: Seventeen working-age participants on maintenance haemodialysis were enrolled. Methods: A 12-week whole-body vibration training programme, including different postures, was designed. The study evaluated and compared phys-ical fitness, including a list of tests such as the 5-repetition sit-to-stand test, hand grip test, 2-min step test, and 8-foot up-and-go test; modified Berg -balance scale; static and dynamic balance function; and quality of life, using a quality of life question-naire before and after the training. Results: All physical fitness parameters, except grip strength on the left side, improved after whole--body vibration training. For balance, the modified Berg balance scale demonstrated enhanced scores for equilibrium, with eyes closed on a stable surface and eyes open on an unstable surface, and movement velocity under the fast condition along the left and right directions (p=0.011). No signif-icant improvements in quality of life were found. Conclusion: Whole-body vibration exercise training enhanced physical fitness and static and dynamic balance control in working-age participants on haemodialysis.