Effects of a 12-wk whole-body vibration based intervention to improve type 2 diabetes

Objective: To test the feasibility, safety and effectiveness of a 12-wk whole body vibration (WBV) intervention on glycemic control, lipid-related cardiovascular risk factors and functional capacity among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in a primary care context. Methods: Fifty non-insulin dependent T2DM patients were randomized 1:1 to an intervention group that, in addition to standard care, received a 12-wk WBV intervention, and a control group receiving only standard care (from February 2012 through May 2012). Outcomes, including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose, lipid-related cardiovascular risk factors (i.e., cholesterol, triglycerides, lipoproteins, LDL/HDL and atherogenic index) and functional capacity were measured at baseline and after the 12-wk intervention. Results: After intervention, there was a reduction in HbA1c and fasting blood glucose when compared to the control group, with a mean difference in change scores between groups of −0.55% (95% CI −0.15 to −0.76) and −33.95 mm/dl (95% CI −51.38 to −3.47), respectively. Similarly, most lipid-related cardiovascular risk factors (i.e., cholesterol, triglycerides and atherogenic index) were also reduced (p < 0.05). Conclusion: A 12-wk WBV intervention in a primary care context is feasible, safe and effective in improving glycemic profile, lipid-related cardiovascular risk factors and functional capacity among T2DM patients. Trial number: ACTRN12613000021774.