Vibration Exercise Therapy
Vibration Plates (Vibration Exercise Machines) offer significant benefits generally but particularly for RSI sufferers. If you have gone to a Physiotherapist you might have come across Vibration Plates which create whole body vibration. They first came about in space race times to find ways of keeping astronauts in condition in zero gravity. Since vibrations go through your entire body, all your muscle groups are affected and exercised although you can use the machines in more specific ways.
How do they work?
If you use one of these machines you will quickly feel that your body is more toned and is getting exercise. As you generally don't use the machines for more than 10 minutes, it can be a time efficient solution. You simply stand, sit, lay down,etc on the vibration plate (platform).
The plate vibrates and your muscles react by contracting, stretching tendons and increasing blood flow and blood oxygenation. This strengthens and tones muscles and tendons without any effort on your part.
Different Types of Machines
Vibration Plates come in different shapes and sizes and in two types of vibration. In terms of size, their are compact models (such as the one above) and upright models which have a pillar and handles. Upright models are probably better if you think you might be unsteady although compact models can be more versatile in not having a pillar to get in the way.
There are two types of vibration plate. The one in the image above works side to side, like a see-saw pivoting in the middle. The founder of Computer Posture has used this type of machine for a few years and is very happy with its performance. It certainly relieves the RSI pain from his neck osteoarthritis and tennis elbow conditions. The other type of machine vibrates with the whole platform moving up and down (not side to side) - this should have greater benefits in theory although in practice there seems to be little difference.
What are the benefits?
Manufacturers claim that you will find increased range of motion, coordination, posture, bone density; decreased cortisol (you create this in response to stress). Consequently, they are said to be relaxing and as much RSI pain is due to muscle tension, it should reduce pain.
Warning: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can arise through vibration caused by pneumatic drills and so it is thought that it is not advised to have focused vibration on wrists. As with all therapies, we advise discussing with health professionals and in this case a physiotherapist is the expert.
