Whole-body vibration is exercise on a shaking platform, used as a low-effort stimulus for muscle, balance, and bone. In older adults it improves leg strength, balance, and physical performance and probably reduces how often people fall, matching rather than beating ordinary strength and balance training. Joint and back pain ease modestly; bone density shows little or no change. Common side effects are mild and short-lived. An addition, not a replacement. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Bone mineral density (DXA, hip and lumbar spine) | No established target; track change from own baseline | Expected to change (bone) |
| Blood pressure (home, seated) | No established target for vibration training; track change from own baseline | Expected to change (blood pressure) |
| Creatine kinase (CK) | 39–308 U/L in men; 26–192 U/L in women | Safety check for statin users |
| Urinalysis (blood on dipstick) | Negative for blood | Safety check; result stops use |
| Function tests (chair rises, timed walk) | Track change from own baseline | Expected to change (physical performance) |
Cadence: Baseline before starting; function tests and blood pressure at 6 weeks and 3 months, then every 6 months; repeat bone scan after 12 months on the same scanner; creatine kinase only if muscle pain develops on a statin, at least 3 days after the last session; urinalysis only after visibly red urine