Semi-Recumbent Vibration Therapy in Older Adults

There are four study visits; screening/baseline followed by eight weeks of training three
times a week, visit 1 at eight weeks followed by 4 weeks of washout, Visit 2 at 12 weeks
followed by eight weeks of training three times a week, and a final Visit 3 at 20 weeks.

At the screening visit, volunteers will be asked to perform tests included in the short
physical performance battery (SPPB) (gait speed, chair rise, balance). If the participants
score is ≤ 9 or ≤ 2 in any of the three tests included in the SPPB they will be eligible for
the intervention phase. At the baseline visit several questionnaires will be obtained and
participants then will proceed with muscle function tests (SPPB, jumping mechanography, grip
strength, timed-up-and-go test).

Participants will then be randomized into one of two groups. The first group will receive
vibration + loading treatment for the first 8 weeks, the second group will receive sham
treatment (loading only). After 8 weeks both groups will go through a 4 week wash-out period
and then crossover will occur. The first group will now receive sham treatment (loading only)
while the second group will receive vibration + loading treatment. The participants will
train for 10 minutes, 3 times a week, during the active 16 total weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Men and women age ≥ 70 years

2. Able and willing to sign informed consent

3. Able to stand without assistance

4. Able and willing to train for 10 minutes, 3 times per week

5. Total SPPB score of ≤ 9 or ≤ 2 in any of the three tests included in the SPPB

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Cognitive impairment to the degree that it limits the ability of signing informed
consent

2. Unable to sit upright for 10 minutes

3. History of injury or surgery within the prior six months which limits the ability to
ambulate

4. Major illness that might cause missed training sessions or visits.