Effects of whole-body vibration exercise on fall risk factors in older adults: A systematic review
Research Notice: Research cited on this page is independent, peer-reviewed scientific work. BGREEN and Turtlegym products are wellness and lifestyle equipment — they are not medical devices and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Findings from independent research do not constitute claims about Vibrahealth products. Persons with health conditions should consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.
Authors: Ko MC, Liu WY, Lee YH, Chen CL, Wu YJ, Tseng TH
Journal: European Review of Aging and Physical Activity (Springer)
Year: 2017
DOI: 10.1186/s11556-017-0180-8
Technology studied: WBVV (Whole Body Vertical Vibration)
Population: Older adults — community-dwelling and institutionalised
Study type: Systematic review
Plain-English Summary
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalisation among Singaporeans aged 65 and above, and the second leading cause of accidental injury death globally. Researchers have long sought practical interventions that can address the physical determinants of fall risk — particularly lower limb muscle strength and balance — in the populations most vulnerable to falls.
Ko and colleagues conducted a systematic review — meaning they searched the published literature comprehensively, applied quality criteria to identify qualifying studies, and summarised findings across the body of evidence. This type of review provides a broader and more reliable picture than individual studies.
The researchers found that WBV showed positive effects on parameters associated with fall risk — specifically balance and lower limb strength — in older adult populations. Their conclusion was that WBV may be a practical strategy for addressing fall risk factors in populations where conventional exercise is limited by physical capacity or feasibility.
The study was published in the European Review of Aging and Physical Activity, a peer-reviewed open-access Springer journal indexed on PubMed.
What This Means
The 2017 Ko review is among the most widely cited systematic reviews in the WBV and fall prevention literature. Its value lies in its breadth: by synthesising findings across multiple studies and populations, it provides a more comprehensive picture than any individual trial. The conclusion that WBV has positive effects on balance and lower limb strength — the two most modifiable physical determinants of fall risk — is consistent with the broader WBV literature. For physiotherapists, geriatricians, and eldercare programme managers evaluating WBV as a fall prevention strategy, this review provides a credible evidence-based reference point.
Related Topics
Sources
- Ko MC, Liu WY, Lee YH, Chen CL, Wu YJ, Tseng TH. (2017). Effects of whole-body vibration exercise on fall risk factors in older adults: A systematic review. European Review of Aging and Physical Activity, 14, 11. https://doi.org/10.1186/s11556-017-0180-8
Research Notice: Research cited on this page is independent, peer-reviewed scientific work. BGREEN and Turtlegym products are wellness and lifestyle equipment — they are not medical devices and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Findings from independent research do not constitute claims about Vibrahealth products. Persons with health conditions should consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.