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What is Whole Body Vibration and does it Help Fibromyalgia?
Whole body vibration (WBV) therapy is gaining attention as a potential treatment for fibromyalgia. While not as ancient as acupuncture, WBV is a modern physical therapy technique that may offer relief from some of the debilitating symptoms of fibromyalgia. Here's what the research says.
WBV stands for Whole Body Vibration. It's a therapeutic exercise technique where a person stands, sits, or performs movements on a platform that vibrates at specific frequencies. These vibrations stimulate muscle contractions and can enhance physical performance, balance, and circulation.
For people with fibromyalgia, WBV is being explored as a way to:
Improve balance and coordination
Enhance mobility and walking endurance
Reduce fatigue and stiffness
Potentially lower pain intensity
The idea is that the vibrations activate muscle fibers and improve neuromuscular function without requiring intense physical exertion—making it a gentle option for those with chronic pain or fatigue.
New Research:
Whole Body Vibration Improves Function in Fibromyalgia Patients
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluated the effects of WBV training in fibromyalgia patients.
The results? WBV led to meaningful improvements in activities of daily living, balance, and walking performance (6MWT). These gains may help reduce the risk of falls—an important benefit for fibro patients. However, WBV did not significantly improve pain intensity or overall quality of life.
Researchers concluded that WBV may be a viable therapeutic option, but larger, well-designed trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness.
What is the Six-Minute Walk Test? (6MWT)
It's a clinical test used to measure walking endurance and functional mobility.
The person walks as far as possible in six minutes, usually on a flat, straight path.
It’s commonly used to assess physical performance in people with chronic conditions like fibromyalgia, COPD, heart failure, or arthritis.
So when the sentence says WBV (likely Whole Body Vibration therapy) improved walking performance (6MWT), it means participants were able to walk farther or more effectively during the six-minute test — a sign of improved physical function
Clinical Trial Results:
The Therapeutic Effects of Whole-Body Vibration in Patients With Fibromyalgia
In a randomized controlled trial, 40 participants (mostly women, average age 52.5) completed a WBV program. They continued using their regular medications (including Duloxetine, Milnacipran, Pregabalin, and Cyclobenzaprine). Participants showed notable improvements in function.
Mixed Exercise + WBV:
Whole Body Vibration Combined With Mixed Exercise Shows Promise
Another study compared WBV plus mixed exercise (aerobic, strength, flexibility, and relaxation) to a control group. After six weeks, the results were compelling:
Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL): Improved by 16% (absolute MD ‐16.02)
Pain Intensity: Improved by 39% (absolute MD ‐28.22)
Fatigue: Improved by 47% (absolute MD ‐33)
Stiffness: Improved by 36.5% (absolute MD ‐26.27)
These outcomes met the 15% threshold for clinical relevance. Withdrawal rates were lower in the intervention group (8%) compared to controls (33%).
So, Does WBV Help?
The evidence suggests that WBV may help improve physical function, reduce fatigue, and ease stiffness in fibromyalgia patients. Pain relief and overall quality of life improvements are less consistent, and the quality of evidence is still considered low. But for those struggling with daily activities and balance, WBV might offer a new avenue of support.
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How can you try WBV?
There are machines you can purchase to try this activity and regular use would be advisable. They say that they help lymphatic drainage and weight loss as well.
Have you tried whole body vibration therapy? Did it help your fibromyalgia symptoms? Share your experience below—we’d love to hear from real people living with fibro.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluating the effect of whole body vibration training on fibromyalgia - 2025
Whole body vibration exercise training for fibromyalgia - 2017
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