Power Plate Whole Body Vibration Training Can Be A Critical Tool In Mitigating The Progression Of Cognitive Decline

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is defined as the boundary between memory loss and impairment and is typically regarded as a preclinical stage of dementia. This can cause cognitive changes such as language, speech, and vision impairments in individuals who still maintain the ability to perform activities of daily living. A recent survey from the Alzheimer’s Association found that 82% of Americans are unaware of the condition or know little about it, even though over 10 million Americans suffer from it.  MCI is often the precursor to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, but it does not have to progress. The average age of development is early 70s, but MCI can happen in adults younger than 65 as well  (alz.org). 

Power Plate was recently used in a long-term study to determine the effects of Whole Body Vibration (WBV) on cognitive impairment. This study, led by Ikuo Odano, MD, PhD, completed at the Miyagi Koseikyokai Izumi Hospital in Sendai, Japan, in conjunction with Tohoku University’s Department of Aging Research and Geriatric Medicine, sought to determine if WBV could enhance cognitive function in subjects with MCI.

The study compared regional cerebral blood flow ratio before and after a four-week long exercise program conducted using Power Plate. Exercises were conducted for 30 seconds on followed by 30 seconds rest for approximately 20 minutes at a frequency of 35-40Hz with a low amplitude. Results of the study conclude that exercises with Power Plate and WBV can be a tool in slowing cognitive decline and preventing crossover to dementia.

Power Plate’s Executive Vice President of Health and Wellness, Zak Lerner, notes the significance of the study by saying:

“Research of this kind reflects a sincere increase in attention to the effects of Whole Body Vibration (WBV) on not only the body, but also the brain. The conclusions of this study demonstrate Power Plate as a promising new adjunct therapy for reducing the cognitive decline that coincides with the progression of vascular dementia. Concurrently, Power Plate's well-documented neurological, musculoskeletal, and metabolic outcomes also make it a relevant tool in mitigating many of the age-related conditions and risk factors that coincide with such a diagnosis.” 
To read an extended summary of the study, click here.