Less is Better? Effectiveness of a Short Local Vibration Protocol on Neuromuscular Function

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Local vibration protocol: The vibrations will be delivered using the Vibramoov Physio device, positioned directly on the quadriceps muscle. The participant will be seated comfortably and will remain at rest throughout the session. The vibration settings will be set to an amplitude of 1 mm and a frequency of 100 Hz.

Study summary

Local vibration is a non-invasive neuromuscular stimulation modality used in training and rehabilitation for its effects on neuromuscular function, particularly its ability to induce nervous adaptations. Its passive application is particularly useful in cases of motor deficit or immobilization.

Several studies, including our own, have shown that vibration protocols over several weeks can induce significant gains in muscle strength, particularly in the knee extensors. However, the parameters of application remain heterogeneous, particularly with regard to the duration of the interventions.

With this in mind, a prospective controlled study is being conducted in healthy subjects, comparing four modalities of local vibration intervention targeting the knee extensors: an intensive vibration protocol over 5 consecutive days (1 session of 30 or 60 minutes per day) and a protocol spread over 4 weeks at a rate of 3 weekly sessions of 30 or 60 minutes). The objective is to evaluate and compare their immediate and delayed effects on force production and corticospinal properties. The results of this study will thus help optimize recommendations regarding the use of local vibration in muscle strengthening and neuromuscular reconditioning strategies.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Compare the effect of the duration of a local vibration program (5 days vs 4 weeks), as well as the effect of the duration of the sessions (30 min vs 60 min) on the gain in knee extension strength in healthy volunteers. — Five times: before the procedure (baseline); at the end of the procedure (day 21 or day 42 depending on the group); then 1 week (day 28 or day 49), 1 month (day 49 or day 70), and 3 months (day 105 or day 126) after the procedure.
  The primary endpoint will be the relative change in maximum isometric strength of the knee extensors (expressed as a percentage increased), assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer.

Trial sites (1)

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