TY - JOUR T1 - Whole-body vibration training versus conventional balance training in patients with severe COPD – a randomized, controlled trial JF - European Respiratory Journal JO - Eur Respir J DO - 10.1183/13993003.congress-2020.4747 VL - 56 IS - suppl 64 SP - 4747 AU - Rainer Gloeckl AU - Tessa Schneeberger AU - Inga Jarosch AU - Daniela Leitl AU - Tobias Reinold AU - Klaus Kenn AU - Rembert Koczulla Y1 - 2020/09/07 UR - http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/56/suppl_64/4747.abstract N2 - Background: Whole-body vibration training (WBVT) performed on a vibration platform can significantly improve physical performance in COPD patients. It has been suggested that an important mechanism of this improvement is based on an improvement in balance. Aim of this study was to investigate the effects of WBVT versus conventional balance training on exercise performance.Methods: 48 patients with severe COPD (FEV1: 37±7 %pred.) and low exercise performance (6-minute walk distance (6MWD): 55±10 %pred.) were included in a randomized controlled trial during a 3-week inpatient pulmonary rehabilitation. All patients completed a standardized endurance and strength training program. Additionally, patients performed 4 different balance exercises 3x/week for 2x1 minute each either on a vibration platform (Galileo) at varying frequencies (5 - 26 Hz) (WBVT) or on a conventional therapy tool inducing an instable surface (CON).Results: 6MWD improved significantly in both groups (WBVT: 48±46m, p<0.001 vs. CON: 39±32m; p<0.001). Muscular performance during a two-legged jump increased significantly more in the WBVT group (+2.3±2.5 W/kg vs. -0.1±2.0 W/kg, p=0.001). Static balance performance also improved significantly more after WBVT (path length in Rombergstand: -38 mm vs. +41mm, tandem stand: -168 mm vs. +1 mm, single leg stance: -150mm vs. +2 mm; all group differences p<0.05). The 4-meter Gait Speed Test also increased significantly only within the WBVT group (0.08±0.14m/s², p=0.012 vs. 0.01±0.11m/s², p=0.71).Conclusion: WBVT can improve balance and muscular performance significantly more compared to conventional balance training.FootnotesCite this article as: European Respiratory Journal 2020; 56: Suppl. 64, 4747.This abstract was presented at the 2020 ERS International Congress, in session “Respiratory viruses in the "pre COVID-19" era”.This is an ERS International Congress abstract. No full-text version is available. Further material to accompany this abstract may be available at www.ers-education.org (ERS member access only). ER -