Effects of whole-body vibration on cognitive function: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Whole-body vibration exercise (WBV) is a low-intensity intervention for improving cognitive function, particularly among individuals who are older or have physical limitations. However, quantitative evidence regarding its effectiveness is limited. This meta-analysis aimed to quantify the effects of WBV on cognitive function and explore major moderating variables and differences across cognitive domains. Sixteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included, yielding 37 effect sizes (Hedges' g) related to cognitive outcomes. Effect sizes were estimated for overall cognitive function and four subdomains: global cognition, executive function, attention, and memory. A meta-regression analysis was conducted to assess the influence of potential moderators, including vibration frequency, intensity, posture, and intervention duration. WBV had a small but statistically significant positive effect on overall cognitive function (Hedges' g = 0.375, 95% CI = [0.263, 0.486], p < .001). Effect sizes were greatest for global cognition (g = 0.55), followed by executive function (g = 0.41), attention (g = 0.28), and memory (g = 0.28). Meta-regression analysis revealed that most of the moderating variables were not significant. The total intervention dose was the only significant moderator (p = .041). This meta-analysis revealed that WBV is associated with meaningful improvements in cognitive function and that the benefits may be greater among populations with cognitive impairment. WBV may be clinically applicable as a low-intensity, accessible cognitive intervention for older adults and individuals with physical limitations. Future research should investigate the relationships between cognitive domain-specific responses and physiological indicators and develop tailored intervention strategies based on age and cognitive status.Registration: PROSPERO CRD420251067063.