The effects of a 4-week vibrotherapy programme on the reduction of adipose tissue in young women with cellulite - a pilot study

Abstract

Introduction: Lipodystrophy is a common problem for modern women. So far, no fully effective therapeutic methods have been developed to eliminate this type of change. Vibration massage is a method that has not yet been studied in the prevention and elimination of lipodystrophy symptoms. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of vibrotherapy on the reduction in lipodystrophic changes. Material and method: 10 volunteers with cellulite changes at the age of 21-23 with physical activity levels described by the international IPAQ questionnaire participated in the study. All women included in the study were evaluated on the basis of 5-day nutrition analysis. Before and after 4 weeks of vibrotherapy, waist, hip and thigh circumferences were measured, and body composition was assessed using bioimpedance and dermatoscope photos were taken. Oscillating cycloidal vibration was generated by the Vitberg+ Rehabilitation Device (Nowy Sącz). Results: After the 4-week series of vibrations, the following average reduction in thigh circumference was observed (Δ1.55 cm, p = 0.002 for right thigh, Δ1.50 cm, p = 0.000 for left), hips (Δ1.25 cm, p = 0.006) and waist (Δ2.30 cm, p = 0.002). The proposed treatment series caused a reduction in body fat mass (Δ0.42 kg, p = 0.009) without affecting the body’s water content, and the analysis of dermatoscopic imaging results revealed improvement in skin perfusion. Conclusion: Oscillating-cycloidal vibration therapy can be an effective tool to alleviate lipodystrophic changes