The study objectives were to evaluate the effects of adding whole-body vibration to squat training on functional performance and self-report of disease in elderly individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA).
This was a prospective, randomized trial in which selected variables were evaluated at three periods: 3 weeks prior to the training, immediately prior, and after the end of the training.
Twenty-three (23) elderly subjects were evaluated using four functional performance tests: Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Get Up and Go Test (TGUG), Chair Stand Test (CST), and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and a self-report of the status of disease (WOMAC).
The intervention lasted for 12 weeks, 3 times per week. The participants were randomized into two groups: (1) squat training with whole-body vibration, and (2) squat training without vibration.
Although there was no statistical difference in functional performance and self-report of disease status between the groups, performance in all the functional tests and in all the domains of WOMAC improved in the vibration group compared to their initial status. In the exercise group, performance improved only two tests (BBS and 6MWT), and there was a reduction in self-reported pain (WOMAC) compared to their initial status.
Although the addition of whole-body vibration to squat training failed to result in a significant improvement in functional performance and self-reported status of knee osteoarthritis in the elderly, the intragroup results suggest that whole-body vibration may represent a feasible and effective way of improving the functionality and self-perception of disease status in older adults with knee OA.