A review of studies on seated whole body vibration and low back pain

The paper reviews the epidemiologic evidence linking low back pain (LBP) and exposure to whole body vibration (WBV). Particular emphasis is placed on studies where the exposure is quantified. Biomechanical studies show a resonance at 4-5 Hz. At the resonance the transmissibility exceeds 1.0, and is dependent on seat attenuation, posture and seat back inclination. Increased spinal loading is evidenced by increased muscle activity, muscle fatigue, and disc pressure, and by decreased stature. Physiologic changes also occur with WBV. The risk of LBP can be reduced by vibration damping, good ergonomic design, reducing exposure, and reducing other risks such as lifting.