In the average Physiotherapy clinic, knee pain ranks second among the never ending list of diagnoses requiring intervention. Whether it is osteoarthritis, torn cartilage (often referred to as a meniscus tear), patellofemoral pain (pain under the knee cap), a ligament sprain, or tendonitis, these conditions can all lead to severe functional limitation and a reduction in one’s quality of life.

In the past, most of these conditions were treated with injections, medication, and ultimately, surgery. Over time however, we have come to realize that through appropriate, individualized, conservative management; part of which should, without doubt, include vibration therapy, there is potential to fully recover “without the need to cut”. [Read more...]

In my previous article, I discussed the first two of four phases of a Vibration Therapy treatment protocol.

The final stages of this protocol include the flexibility and strengthening phases; usually occurring simultaneously.

In an effort to avoid redundancy on subject matter covered so thoroughly in previous articles written for this site, I would rather “move on” and turn my attention to the central nervous system while pondering the question, “what is all this vibration doing to our brains?” [Read more...]

Although Neuromuscular Re-Education has no universally accepted definition, it generally refers to a treatment technique or exercise performed by an individual with the purpose of improving, via the nervous system, the level of communication between the body and the brain.

Because of the fact that vibration training and vibration therapy exercises rely on the involuntary stretch reflex, there is a significant amount of communication occurring between the brain and the contracting muscles with each individual exercise. [Read more...]

Gate Control Theory

In order to understand this phase, it is important to understand the gate control theory.

This theory states that throughout the nervous system of the human body are many types of nerve fibers responsible for relaying all the sensory information from our limbs, tissues, and organs to our brain.

One type, collectively known as nociceptive nerve fibers, is responsible for providing us with the unfortunate sensation of pain. On the other end of the spectrum lie another group of nerve fibers known collectively as non-nociceptive fibers. These fibers provide information related to all non-painful stimuli; among which is vibration.
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After approximately 18 months of reading, contemplating and theorizing, over 6 months of tests and trials on over 100 willing participants in the form of physical therapy patients, and one inspirational “debate” on this site, I determined that it was time for me to sit down and organize my thoughts and experiences thus far with vibration therapy.
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