Rotator Cuff Injury and Whole Body Vibration
The Rotator Cuff is a group of four muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis)
surrounding the shoulder joint. The shoulder is composed of three bones the clavicle, scapula and
humerus which create two different joints (the acromioclavicular and glenohumeral joint). The rotator
cuff muscles assist the joints by maintaining proper alignment allowing for full range of movement of
the arm. Injuries to these muscles can include chronic tears (repetitive overhead work, abnormal
alignment of the shoulder bones), acute tears (fall on shoulder, lifting heavy object) and tendinitis
(wearing of muscle with age, overuse/repetitive work). Symptoms are dependent on the type of injury.
Chronic tears symptoms include pain (often worse at night), pain may be associated with slight
weakness, and difficulty performing overhead tasks. Symptoms for acute tears include a tearing
sensation followed by a shooting pain and tenderness over the ruptured area; movements of arm are
limited by pain and muscle spasms, and if the tear is large enough an inability to independently lift the
arm to the side. Tendinitis symptoms include a deep aching sensation in the shoulder and upper arm,
tenderness over the inflamed tendon, and a slow increasing pain with side or inward movements of the
arm. Treatments will also vary depending on the type and severity of injury. Treatment includes resting
the shoulder and use of medications to decrease inflammation and pain. Physical therapy is often
needed to help manage pain, increase strength and maintain/improve range of motion. If a tear is
severe enough it may require surgery to repair.
Once through the acute inflammation stage of a rotator cuff injury an individual should be able to
resume a normal exercise routine with modifications. These modifications should be put in place by a
doctor or physiotherapist and exercises should be monitored and progressed by an appropriate health
care practitioner. With a rotator cuff tear, especially following surgery, a doctor and physiotherapist will
have a specific protocol for an individual to follow to ensure proper healing and the prevention of reinjury. It is important to check with a doctor or therapist before resuming an exercise routine to ensure
that the injury is not exacerbated.
One study investigated the use of Whole Body Vibration (WBV) as a precursor to a multiple joint
dynamic resistance training program in the upper extremities 1. Specifically, the use of WBV combined
with a resistance training program for the upper extremities versus a resistance training program alone
was investigated. The outcome measure was isokinetic total work measurements of the rotator cuff.
Both groups showed improvements; however, there were no significant improvements found between
the two groups. The authors felt further research into WBV as a precursor to multijoint exercises was
warranted as there is a lack of literature available. This is the only research article looking at using WBV
with respect to affecting rotator cuff muscle strength. More research is needed to determine the benefit
of WBV in this area. Positive outcomes have been found with regards to WBV which include muscle
power and strength, metabolic changes, athletic performance, improved balance, and effects on bone
density. There are several articles listed in the T-zone Vibration Technology User’s Manual showing the
benefits of WBV in these areas.
THIS IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. WE DO NOT PRESCRIBE OR DIAGNOSE. 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
If an individual with a rotator cuff injury is beginning to use the WBV platform in their exercise routine, it
is always beneficial to check with a doctor to ensure that there are no underlying medical issues that
may be contraindicated. Acute inflammation and recent surgery are contraindications to using the WBV
platform. The stage of healing should be taken into consideration before using WBV. When beginning to
use WBV it is beneficial to begin at a reduce intensity and duration until comfortable with the machine.
Once an individual has become accustomed to the WBV platform and no symptoms related to his/her
condition has arisen, both intensity and duration may be increased. Appropriate exercises can also be
added if desired. It is important that an individual with a rotator cuff injury avoid exercises with the
hands or arms on the platform until discussed with a knowledgeable health care provider. If any exercise
is causing pain or reproducing any symptoms related to the initial injury it should be discontinued
immediately and the symptoms should be discussed with a doctor or therapist. In general, if an
individual experiences any pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath while using the WBV platform, it
should be discontinued immediately.
References
1. Hand J, Verscheure S, Osternig L. 2009. A comparison of whole-body vibration and resistance
training on total work in the rotator cuff, Journal of Athletic Training, 44(5), 469-74.
THIS IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. WE DO NOT PRESCRIBE OR DIAGNOSE. 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