A Randomized Controlled Trial of Whole-Body Vibration on Gait Ability and Balance among Older Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Visual Abstract

Gait and Balance in People Undergoing Long-Term Hemodialysis

“…The research team reported there were no serious adverse effects exhibited by the participants, "however, whole-body vibration did not improve gait ability and balance, as assessed by the physical performance tests." 1 The authors did point out that: Although there are few studies examining the efficacy of balance training in hemodialysis patients, Frih et al reported that a 24-week program with balance training (30 min/session) four times a week on nondialysis days improved the postural balance of hemodialysis patients when included in a usual endurance-resistance training monitored by profession balance of hemodialysis patients when included in a usual endurance-resistance training monitored by professional physiologists. 1 The results of this study indicate that if there are shortcuts to improving gait and balance in hemodialysis patients, the whole-body vibrator does not appear to be it.…”

“…A team of researchers from Japan, writing an article published in this issue of CJASN , 1 noted “the incident rate of falls among hemodialysis patients is 1.18–1.60 per patient-year, which is much higher than that in the general older population (≥65 years), at approximately 0.67 per person-year.” 1…”

“…Asahina et al 1 devised a study to determine if external stimulation—a vibrating platform on which the patients stood to induce whole-body vibration—had an effect on balance and gait. According to the authors, this has proven to have some efficacy in “improving gait speed and dynamic balance among very old and frail individuals.” 1…”

“…The research team reported there were no serious adverse effects exhibited by the participants, “however, whole-body vibration did not improve gait ability and balance, as assessed by the physical performance tests.” 1…”

“…The authors argue for continuing studies to "determine the efficacy and adherence of longer and more intense whole-body vibration training for hemodialysis patients." 1…”