Effects of Whole-Body Vibration in Older Adult Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Can J Diabetes. 2019 Oct;43(7):524-529.e2. doi: 10.1016/j.jcjd.2019.03.008. Epub 2019 Mar 27.

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the effects of whole-body vibration training on metabolic abnormalities, mobility, balance and aerobic capacity in older adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods: We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, PEDro, LILACS and SciELO (from the earliest date available to March 2018) for controlled trials that evaluated the effects of whole-body vibration on the health-related outcomes of patients with type 2 diabetes. Two reviewers independently selected the studies and performed statistical analyses of the studies. Weighted mean differences, standard mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results: In total, 7 studies, involving 279 patients who had type 2 diabetes, that compared whole-body vibration with other exercises and/or controls were included. Individual studies suggested that whole-body vibration was associated with improvements in pain levels, blood flow in the legs, glycated hemoglobin levels and fasting blood glucose levels. Whole-body vibration improved mobility weighted mean differences (-.24 seg; 95% CI -2.0, -0.5; n=96); balance standard mean differences (2.34; 95% CI 1.16, 3.5; n=57); and aerobic capacity standard mean differences (0.7; 95% CI 0.2, 1.3; n=59).

Conclusions: Whole-body vibration could be a useful strategy in the management of the symptoms and disabilities associated with type 2 diabetes; however, it is necessary to perform further studies to reinforce the reported findings.

Keywords: diabetes mellitus; diabète sucré; exercice; exercise; vibrations globales du corps; whole body vibration.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / therapy*
  • Exercise Therapy*
  • Humans
  • Postural Balance
  • Vibration / therapeutic use*