Stochastic Resonance Whole-Body Vibration, Musculoskeletal Symptoms, and Body Balance: A Worksite Training Study. 


Author: Elfering A, Arnold S, Schade V, Burger C, Radlinger L.

Affiliation: Department of Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland. 
Conference/Journal: Saf Health Work.
Date published: 2013 Sep
Other:
 Volume ID: 4   ,  Issue ID: 3   ,  Pages: 149-155   ,  Word Count: 147  
    

BACKGROUND:

Stochastic resonance whole-body vibration training (SR-WBV) was tested to reduce work-related musculoskeletal complaints.

METHODS:

Participants were 54 white-collar employees of a Swiss organization. The controlled crossover design comprised two groups each given 4 weeks of exercise and no training during a second 4-week period. Outcome was daily musculoskeletal well-being, musculoskeletal pain, and surefootedness. In addition, participants performed a behavioral test on body balance prior to when SR-WBV started and after 4 weeks of SR-WBV.

RESULTS:

Across the 4-week training period, musculoskeletal well-being and surefootedness were significantly increased (p < 0.05), whereas musculoskeletal pain was significantly reduced only in those who reported low back pain during the last 4 weeks prior to the study (p < 0.05). Body balance was significantly increased by SR-WBV (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

SR-WBV seems to be an efficient option in primary prevention of musculoskeletal complaints and falls at work.

KEYWORDS:

low back pain, musculoskeletal system, occupational health



PMID: 24106645