Effects of horizontal- and vertical-vibration exercises using a blade on the balance ability of patient with hemiplegic

[Purpose] This study aimed to compare the effects of horizontal-vibration with those of vertical-vibration training on the balance and gait of patients with stroke. [Subjects and Methods] A sample population of 20 subjects was randomly divided into 2 groups: the horizontal-vibration group and the vertical-vibration group. We evaluated the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) score, Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) test results, and 10-meter Walk Test (10MWT) results at 3 times points: before the training, 3 weeks after the training, and 6 weeks after the training. [Results] The BBS score, TUG test result, and 10MWT result differed significantly among the subjects in the vertical-vibration group. However, only the BBS score differed significantly among the subjects in the horizontal-vibration group. [Conclusion] The vibration training used in this study heightened the activity of the trunk muscles and improved balance ability of the patients. In particular, we recommend the vertical-vibration training because dynamic movements such as gait improved the balance ability through activation of the trunk stabilizer muscles.