Whole Body Vibration

The SMH Health & Science section presented an article on Whole Body Vibration (WBV) Therapy, a new trend in health and sports treatments.

Claims are that it can improve bone density, balance, incontinence and improve recovery times from injury.

The theory is that the treatment triggers the body's natural response to vibration by stimulating muscles to contract, increasing blood and nutrients to the tissues and bones, aiding in fast growth and recovery.

WBV was discovered in the 1970s by Russian scientists, who used it to help astronauts recover from muscle and bone loss in space.

It is used in Europe and the US, and has only just arrived in Australia in 2004. Several physiotherapist clinics and sports club are now using them. Smaller personal machines are available in the US.

Researchers in Melbourne are investigating the benefits in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in paraplegics and women in general.