Effects of Focal Muscle Vibration Versus Whole Upper Limb Vibration in Post-Stroke Patients

Summary

This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on rehabilitation strategies for post-stroke patients, specifically focusing on the efficacy of vibration therapy modalities. By comparing focal muscle vibration therapy and whole upper limb vibration therapy, the research aims to provide empirical evidence that can inform clinical practices and enhance rehabilitation outcomes. The findings are expected to clarify which modality is more effective in reducing spasticity and improving motor control, thereby guiding clinicians in selecting appropriate interventions tailored to individual patient needs, increasing chances of benefits, time management and useful for academic purpose. Furthermore, the study addresses a critical gap in the literature, facilitating further research and discussion on the mechanisms underlying vibration therapy's effects.

Ultimately, this research aims to reduce spasticity and improve community outcomes by enhancing the quality of life for stroke survivors, enabling them to regain independence and participate more fully in daily activities by regaining the motor control functions. By contributing to both theoretical and practical frameworks, the study seeks to advance the field of neurorehabilitation and support informed decision-making among healthcare professionals.

Conditions

• Stroke
• Post Stroke Upper Limb Spasticity

Interventions

OTHER

Focal muscle vibration through focal muscle vibrator along with conventional neurorehabilitation

Group A will receive the 30 minutes treatment protocol. Warm-up exercises for first 15 minutes with ROM and stretching exercises of upper extremity 15 minutes application of FMV All participants were instructed to sit back in a high, fixed chair without armrests, keeping their feet flat on the floor. The dominant shoulder was positioned slightly away from the trunk i.e. in slight abduction and the elbow was held at a 90° angle as part of the designated vibration position. After setting up, the researcher guided the participants to remain seated in the same position as it might affect the results and treatment. The participants then received the vibration in frequency of 30 Hz in both vertical and horizontal directions. Based on our review of prior clinical studies aimed at improving muscle spasticity we implemented vibration protocols with exposure times ranging from 30 to 60 seconds and rest intervals between 15 and 60 seconds. The analysis focused on seven muscle groups

OTHER

Upper limb vibration through whole body vibrator along with conventional neurorehabilitation

Group B will receive the 30 minutes treatment protocol. Warm-up exercises for first 15 minutes with ROM and stretching exercises of upper extremity. Patients in the treatment group received upper limb vibration using the Power Plate vibration platform (Performance Health Systems, Power Plate Pro5, North America 2009). The patient was seated on a stool placed next to the whole-body vibration device; the elbow was positioned at 70-80 degrees flexion and wrist was positioned at dorsiflexion and upper limb vibration was applied through Whole body vibrator to the affected limb for two minutes. The WBV consisted of two sessions of 60 seconds of stimulation interrupted by a one-minute break between each session to prevent muscle fatigue. The amplitude of the vibration was 2 mm, and the frequency was 35-40 Hz. An experienced physical therapist supervised the WBV administration. The upper limb vibration treatment was performed 5 times a week for 8 weeks.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences

  lead OTHER

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

DOUBLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

45 Years

Max Age

60 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-12-20

Primary Completion

2026-05-20

Completion

2026-05-20