Download Atherosclerosis And Whole Body Vibration

Atherosclerosis and Whole Body Vibration
Atherosclerosis is a disease of the blood vessels that involves thickening of the artery walls. Symptoms
of this disease usually occur when the artery becomes clogged or blocked, however the buildup of
plaque can begin to occur early in an individual’s life. Symptoms will depend on the arteries affected by
the disease, but they usually occur in the legs first. An individual may experience cold and numbness in
the feet as well as cramping and pain with small amounts of physical exertion. This is known as
claudication and is caused by an insufficient blood supply to the area. The most serious risk of
atherosclerosis is when the build up or plaque causes occlusion to coronary arteries which lead to a
heart attack, or a stroke due to an artery being blocked in the brain. An embolism can also lead to a
heart attack or stroke. This is when the plaque or build up becomes dislodged and travels to another
artery where it fully occludes blood flow. Atherosclerosis can be caused by several underlying factors
such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity; however, the main cause is due to a diet high in
refined sugar and fat, more specifically cholesterol. Lifestyle and other excesses such as alcohol
consumption and smoking may contribute to the development of this disease. Medical treatments
include vasodilators and blood thinner medications, and surgery including angioplasty and coronary
artery bypass surgery.
Lifestyle modifications are essential for prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. It is important to
avoid fatty foods, minimize alcohol intake, and exercise. It is also good to monitor blood pressure and
cholesterol levels. Symptoms generally occur when the disease becomes a significant health risk.
However a research paper looking at Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), which is a systemic
manifestation of atherosclerosis, shows significant benefits exercise has on the reduction of claudication
pain and an increase in pain free walking and overall walking ability 1. Exercise is shown to be effective
at reducing several risks factors associated with atherosclerosis including lipid and glucose levels,
weight, and high blood pressure 2. When combined with other lifestyle modifications this affect can be
even more beneficial. Exercise is consistently recommended as a preventative measure and treatment
of atherosclerosis.
A study examining the effects of Whole Body Vibration (WBV) on atherosclerosis demonstrated a
reduction in plaque buildup and a thinner aortic wall 3. Furthermore, it was concluded that WBV may
play an important role in lipid metabolism. Because these results were found in animal studies, the exact
benefits for humans can only be assumed. Several studies have also shown that WBV increases blood
flow in the arms and legs 4,-6. Since each study was performed with a specific population, it is unknown if
the benefits will translate to other populations. Due to the nature of atherosclerosis and the association
with potential underlying medical issues, it is essential that an individual speaks with a physician prior to
adding WBV to his/her exercise routine. It is important that the physician understands WBV so they can
help determine whether the benefits will outweigh any risks or possible contraindications. An acute
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and other circulatory issues as well as various cardiac conditions are
considered contraindications to using WBV. Once a physician has cleared an individual to use WBV, they
should begin at a lower intensity and duration. Also symptoms should be continuously monitored. WBV
should be discontinued if any symptoms related to atherosclerosis become worse, and any changes
should be discussed with a physician. Once an individual has become comfortable with the machine, and
THIS IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. WE DO NOT DIAGNOSE OR PRESCRIBE. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR
HEALTH PROVIDER.
25 Curity Avenue, Unit 2A, Toronto, ON M4B 3M2
416-285-6055 fax 416-285-8918
[email protected] www.t-zonevibration.com
no changes in symptoms occur, the intensity of exercises can be increased and exercises at the
appropriate level may be added. In general, if an individual experiences shortness of breath, pain or
dizziness when using WBV it should be discontinued immediately.
References
1. Gardner AW, Afaq A. 2008. Management of lower extremity peripheral arterial disease, Journal
of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation, 28(6), 349-357.
2. Fletcher G, Trejo JF. 2005. Why and how to prescribe exercise: overcoming the barriers,
Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, 72(8), 649-9, 653-4, 656.
3. Oki M, Ishitake T, Ohkubo A, Matoba T. 1989. Frequency dependence of the suppressive effects
of vibration on atherosclerosis in the rabbit, The Kurume Medical Journal 36(4), 161-6.
4. Lythgo N, Eser P, de Groot P, Galea M. 2009. Whole-body vibration dosage alters leg blood flow,
Clinical Physiology Funct Imaging, 29(1), 53-9.
5. Maloney-Hinds C, Petrofsky JS, Zimmerman G. 2008. The effect of 30 Hz vs. 50 Hz passive
vibration and duration of vibration on skin blood flow in the arm, Medical Science Monitor,
14(3), CR112-6.
6. Lohman EB 3rd, Petrofsky JS, Maloney-Hinds C, Betts-Schwab H, Thorpe D. 2007. The effect of
whole body vibration on lower extremity skin blood flow in normal subjects, Medical Science
Monitor, 13(2), CR71-6.
THIS IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. WE DO NOT DIAGNOSE OR PRESCRIBE. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR
HEALTH PROVIDER.
25 Curity Avenue, Unit 2A, Toronto, ON M4B 3M2
416-285-6055 fax 416-285-8918
[email protected] www.t-zonevibration.com