Q. Is vibration training a new phenomenon in the fitness and rehabilitation world?
A.  Vibration has been used as an exercise and therapeutic tool since the late 1800s. The research of this technology really began in the late 70's with the development of a vibration system by one of Russia's key sports scientists Dr. Vladimir Nazarov. He was an active sportsman, a member of the Soviet gymnastics team and occupied a chair for sports biomechanics. The Russian Space Program is currently using the technology with their astronauts suffering from considerable bone loss due to weightlessness. In addition, the European Space Agency and NASA are actively using vibration in ongoing studies for the maintenance of muscle strength, mass and bone density. Since then research into the benefits of whole body vibration (WBV) has proliferated.
Q. How does whole body vibration affect the body?
A. The vibrations activate the involuntary muscle stretch reflex (IMSR). We know that when a doctor taps your patella tendon with a little hammer, there is a reflex response. When exercised, the IMSR is activated to the tune of around 1,500 contract/relax cycles per minute. A strong muscle pumping action is responsible for moving a great deal of fresh oxygenated blood to the working muscles, while flushing out all lactic acid and metabolic waste products
Q. How does that pattern affect my workout or therapy?
A. This the only vibration device that provides for the application of the natural, locomoter, crossover pattern, which is the basis for all functional ambulatory activities, such as walking and running. The result is a more functional workout or therapy session.
Q. What are the advantages to the VibraFlex vibration pattern?
· Provides for improved neuromuscular communication;
· Provides for better stabilization of the head and spine, resulting in less vibration;
· Provides for increased use of the postural muscles;
· Properly re-wires the neural pathways;
· Provides for larger amplitudes and forces resulting in greater work done, per unit of time
Q. Do we have appropriate Health Canada classification?
A. Health Canada reviewed our information regarding its performance and have agreed that it is a powered exercise equipment - not a medical device. However, diligence must be adhered to when making claims regarding the technology.
Q. Does the upper body benefit using WBV?
A. Yes, the whole body undergoes vibration training. Various positions target certain muscle groups. Vibrations are concentrated on the targeted muscle groups, but also vibrate in nearby muscles, joints and tendons. However, to achieve optimal benefits of vibration in the upper body (neck, shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist and hand), we suggest training with the hand-held VibraFlex. This was tested with excellent results in sports and fitness centers, tennis and golf clubs, and physical therapy.
Q. Why use WBV to treat injuries?
A. WBV is an invaluable tool in treating the injury as there are indications tied to protocols that can improve limitations in nearly every objective measurement. These include pain, swelling, ROM, stability, endurance, strength, power, and quality of movement pattern.
Q. How does it help in speeding recovery and healing?
A.  The primary effect of WBV that improves recovery time and healing is the increase in blood flow that is generated. As we gain hundreds of muscle contractions, followed by relaxations using our protocols, we gain the squeezing and relaxation of the blood vessels that traverse all of the target musculature.
Q. After using WBV, my legs and calves feel itchy and have reddened. Is this normal?
A.  Users commonly report itching erythema, due to enhanced blood flow.  This effect usually subsides in minutes, as blood flow returns to normal. This effect is a positive benefit as circulation to the lower extremities is improved.
Q. Can I use WBV as a warm up and/or cool down?
A.  Yes, you can accommodate the level of vibration training to your needs. Whether training or simply using it to warm up and/or cool down, the vibrations of the VibraFlex warm up the muscles as they contract and relax due to natural reflex. There is an increase in blood circulation and oxygenation flushing out the metabolic waste products of ammonia & lactic acid. You adjust the program according to your needs.