Objective:  The present article is a preliminary report on the effect of Whole Body Vibration (WBV) on the mobility in long-term immobilized children and adolescents.

Participants:  WBV was applied to 6 children and adolescents (diagnoses: osteogenesis imperfecta, N=4; cerebral palsy, N=1; dysraphic defect of the lumbar spine, N=1) over a time period of 6 months.

Method:  WBV was applied by a vibrating platform constructed on a tilt-table. The treatment effect was measured by alternations of the tilt-angle of the table and with the “Brief assessment of motor function” (BAMF). All 6 individuals were characterized by an improved mobility, which was documented by an increased tilt-angle or an improved BAMF-score.

Results:  The authors concluded WBV might be a promising approach to improve mobility in severely motor-impaired children and adolescents. Therefore, the Cologne Standing-and-Walking- Trainer powered by Galileo is a suitable therapeutic device to apply WBV in immobilized children and adolescents.

STUDY SUMMARY:   Children with different chronic diseases (osteogenesis imperfecta, cerebral palsy and dysraphic defect) were treated with side alternating whole body vibration for 6 months. Muscle force and mobility improved in all subjects. In a child with cerebral palsy spasticity was reduced and muscle tone reduced. As a result the treatment with botulinum toxin could be postponed. A child with a dysraphic defect showed a reduced lordosis and decreased contractions. Knee joint angle improved from 40° to 10° in the right and 0°in the left knee. An already planned surgery could be cancelled.