Effect of Whole-Body Vibration Training on Physical Fitness and Postural Control in Working-Age Patients on Haemodialysis

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 physical 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 questionnaire 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 significant 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.