Effects Of Vibration Training On Muscle Recovery and Exercise Induced Soreness: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: The positive effects of vibration training (VT) on improving strength and muscle performance have been widely documented. However, its ability to diminish the effects of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) and initiate muscle recovery has not been thoroughly correlated. Data Sources: Systematic literature searches for randomized controlled trials between 2009-2014 were performed in the databases of: SOLAR (CSS Library), CINAHL and PubMed between July15 to July 26, 2014. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Five randomized controlled trials conducted with a total of 163 subjects supported moderate evidence with the use of VT to diminish DOMS. Data Synthesis and Conclusions: The studies presented moderate evidence for the use of VT in muscle recovery parameters of: power, explosive muscle ability, return of strength, and maximal voluntary isometric contraction as well as ROM. This review found no evidence for the effects of VT on limb circumference. Vibration Training (VT), when compared to other exercises such as a standard sport cool down or treadmill walking, had no significant difference on the return of muscle function as measured in terms of strength and power. The same studies, however, showed that VT led to significantly faster recovery time compared to the control (no intervention) group.