Effect of Plantar Vibration Stimuli on the Balance of Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Wanderley FS, Alburquerque-Sendín F, Parizotto NA, Rebelatto JR. Effect of plantar vibration stimuli on the balance of older women: a randomized controlled trial.ObjectiveTo identify the effect of vibratory stimuli applied to the plantar region on the balance of women 60 years or older.DesignA randomized controlled trial (blinded assessor).SettingUniversity research laboratory.ParticipantsAll women (N=30; age, ≥60y) selected had a balance deficit, assessed by using the One-Leg Stance test with eyes open (EO).InterventionsParticipants were randomly divided into an experimental group, which received vibratory stimuli, and a control group, which received no intervention.Main Outcome MeasuresFunctional reach (FR) test and center-of-pressure (CoP) sway area (force platform).ResultsThere was a significant difference in the time factor of the experimental group for the FR test and CoP sway area with eyes closed (EC). For the group × time interaction, there was improvement in balance in anterior-posterior (AP) CoP sway velocity with EO and EC. There also was improvement in CoP sway area with EC.ConclusionVibratory stimuli applied to the plantar region have beneficial effects on balance in women 60 years or older, with greater effectiveness in anterior displacement, postural control of the AP axis, and the EC condition.