During Russian space program, the astronauts suffered from bone loss at a much young age. They began to use vibration massage therapy to help strengthen astronauts’ bone mass and muscles. Today, NASA continues to use vibration therapy to help prevent bone loss.
More research is needed on the potential health benefits and risks of vibration therapy. Some evidence suggests it may help treat certain conditions. It may also pose some risks.
How does vibration therapy work?
There are two main types of vibration therapy: whole-body and localized.
During whole-body vibration therapy, your therapist will ask you to stand, sit, or lay on a machine supported by a vibrating platform. For example, they may ask you to stand in a half-squat position with your knees bent.
During localized vibration therapy, your therapist will place a hand-held vibrating device on certain parts of your body. For example, they may place it on your calf or thigh muscles.
When the vibrations are transmitted to your body, they cause your muscles to contract and relax. Certain types of vibrations may also cause your body to produce more osteoblasts. These are cells that produce bone.
The direction and intensity of vibrations may determine how well vibration therapy works. Some machines produce only vertical vibrations. Others produce vibrations that go up and down, front and back, and sideways. Up and down vibrations are believed to be the most effective for producing rapid muscle contractions.
What are the health benefits of vibration therapy?
Advocates claim that whole-body and localized vibration therapy have a range of health benefits. For example, some people claim vibration therapy can help:
- increase bone density
- increase muscle mass
- improve circulation
- reduce joint pain
- reduce back pain
- alleviate stress
- boost metabolism
Read Complete Article at Vibration Therapy Benefits
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