Chronic Venous Insufficiency and Whole Body Vibration
There are two types of blood vessels in the body to transport blood. Arteries deliver oxygenated
blood from the heart to the body, while veins return deoxygenated blood back to the heart. When
an individual suffers from Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), the body has difficulty returning
blood from the lower extremities back to the heart. Normally, the venous pump is responsible for
the return of blood to the heart. The venous pump is composed of the muscles in the legs and one
way valves in the veins that prevent the back flow of blood. The venous pump works most
effectively when an individual is walking or moving. Long periods of standing or sitting in a
static position place a lot of pressure on the veins, resulting in a pooling of blood and an increase
in venous blood pressure. If this occurs over a long period of time, it can lead to permanent
damage of the veins in the legs. This leads to CVI, which may also be caused by congenital
defects of the veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and phlebitis. Symptoms include swelling of
the ankles, tightness, pain, numbness and complaints of tired, cramped, heavy, achy legs. Many
of these symptoms are more severe when standing or walking and are relieved with rest and
elevation of the legs. CVI is also associated with varicose veins and some individuals may also
be at risk for developing venous ulcers around the ankle. Treatment includes elevating the legs to
help maintain blood flow, compression stockings, topical treatments for ulcers (if present), and in
more severe cases surgical interventions. These interventions include ablation, sclerotherapy,
vein stripping, by-pass, valve repair, and angiograph and stenting.
Regular exercise is an important treatment for CVI1. Aerobic exercise is considered a treatment
for CVI as it helps to improve blood flow in the veins. Like all treatments, the appropriate type
of exercise should be guided by a physician1. A structured exercise program consisting of
exercise that focuses on strengthening the muscles in the calves was found to improve the calf
muscle pump function in individuals with CVI2. Vigorous exercise was found to be a predictor
for developing ulcers in individuals with CVI3. Though it was suggested that vigorous exercise
increased the risk for those with CVI to develop ulcers, physical activity was still considered
important3.
There is a lack of research looking at the effects of Whole Body Vibration (WBV) on individuals
with CVI. However, there are studies that have shown an increase in blood flow when using
WBV on healthy individuals4,5,6. One study found that the greatest increase in blood flow was
when the platform vibrated between 10 to 20 Hz6. Improving blood flow in the veins of the leg is
a goal for treatment for those with CVI. However, more research needs to be done to determine
conclusively if WBV would be an appropriate type of exercise to achieve this goal.
THIS IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. WE DO NOT DIAGNOSE OR PRESCRIBE. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR
HEALTH PROVIDER.
25 Curity Avenue, Unit 2A, Toronto, ON M4B 3M2
416-285-6055 fax 416-285-8918
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-2There are several underlying medical issues that may prevent an individual with CVI from using
WBV. Recent stents, DVT and other circulatory issues are all considered a contraindication to
using WBV. This list is by no means inclusive. Contraindications are recommended when there
is a lack of research in a particular area, or when there is a known negative consequence.
Without research, it cannot be determined if the benefits to using WBV would outweigh any
potential risks. The concern when an individual has a DVT or stent is that the vibration may
cause the blood clot or stent to dislodge leading to life threatening complications. As with any
new exercise, it is important to discuss the use of WBV with a physician before using the
platform. It is essential that the physician understand WBV so that he/she can help the individual
make an informed decision. If an individual is cleared by her/his physician to begin WBV, it
should be started at a reduced intensity and duration. This is so an individual can closely monitor
their response to the machine, and any changes in symptoms. If any symptoms related to an
individual’s medical issues arise or increase or if any new symptoms occur, WBV should be
discontinued immediately and the new symptoms should be discussed with a physician. If
symptoms remain the same or improve, the intensity and duration can be increased and exercises
added at the appropriate fitness level. In general, if an individual experiences any pain, dizziness
or shortness of breath, WBV should be discontinued.
References
1. http://www.uchospitals.edu/online-library/content=P082502. Padberg FT, Johnston MV,
Sisto SA. 2004. Structured exercise improves calf muscle pump function in chronic venous
insufficiency: a randomized trial, The Journal of Vascular Surgery, 39 (1), 79-87.3. Bérard
A, Abenhaim L, Platt R, Kahn SR, Steinmetz O. 2002. Risk factors for the first-time
development of venous ulcers of the lower limbs: the influence of heredity and physical
activity, Angiology, 53(6), 647-57.
4. Lohman EB 3rd, Petrofsky JS, Maloney-Hinds C, Betts-Schwab H, Thorpe D. 2007. The
effect of whole body vibration on lower extremity skin blood flow in normal subjects, Med
Sci Monit, 13(2), CR 71-6.
5 .Kerschan-Schindl K, Grampp S, Henk C, Resch H, Preisinger E, Fialka-Moser V, Imhof
H. 2001. Whole-body vibration exercise leads to alterations in muscle blood volume, Clinical
Physiology, 21(3), 377-82.
THIS IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. WE DO NOT DIAGNOSE OR PRESCRIBE. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR
HEALTH PROVIDER.
25 Curity Avenue, Unit 2A, Toronto, ON M4B 3M2
416-285-6055 fax 416-285-8918
info@t-zonehealth.com www.t-zonevibration.com
-36. Lythgo N, Eser P, de Groot P, Galea M. 2009. Whole-body vibration dosage alters leg
blood flow, Clinical Physiology and Functional Imaging, 29(1), 53-9.
THIS IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. WE DO NOT DIAGNOSE OR PRESCRIBE. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR
HEALTH PROVIDER.
25 Curity Avenue, Unit 2A, Toronto, ON M4B 3M2
416-285-6055 fax 416-285-8918
info@t-zonehealth.com www.t-zonevibration.com