Effects of vibration on flexibility: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Exogenous stimulation of skeletal muscle and tendon is commonly employed to enhance range of motion.
• The specific impact of vibration on flexibility remains incompletely understood despite extensive research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of acute and chronic vibration interventions on flexibility in young, healthy individuals.
• To assess the additive effects of vibration compared to non-vibration conditions.

Main Methods:

• Meta-analysis of 19 studies (n=600) examining pre- and post-intervention flexibility.
• Meta-analysis of 13 studies (n=324) comparing vibration with non-vibration interventions.
• Sub-group analyses based on intervention duration, exercise type, and vibration type.

Main Results:

• Vibration interventions demonstrated significant positive effects on flexibility (SMD=-0.79, p<0.001), though heterogeneity was noted (I²=75%).
• A significant additive effect of vibration on flexibility was observed compared to identical conditions without vibration (SMD=0.25, P=0.03) with minimal heterogeneity (I²=0%).
• Publication bias was assessed as low.

Conclusions:

• Vibration interventions appear to be an effective strategy for improving flexibility.
• The addition of vibration to exercise programs may yield further improvements in flexibility.