Side alternating vibration training in patients with mitochondrial disease: a pilot study

Authors

  • Christopher Newell Department of Medical Science, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
  • Barbara Ramage Department of Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
  • Ion Robu Department of Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
  • Jane Shearer Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
  • Aneal Khan Departments of Medical Genetics and Pediatrics, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada

Keywords:

Side alternating vibration training, Randomized controlled trial, Mitochondrial disease, Peak jumping power, Skeletal muscle, Clinical measurement, Pilot study

Abstract

Background: Side alternating vibration training (SAVT) is a mechanical oscillation using a vibrating platform that simulates exercise. We hypothesized that patients with mitochondrial myopathies, who experience muscle weakness, may see an improvement in muscle power with SAVT. Methods: Patients with mitochondrial disease started either a treatment (SAVT) or control phase (standing without vibration) for 12 weeks, then 12 weeks of washout, and then a 12-week cross-over. The main outcome measure was peak jump power (PJP). We compared this to a natural history cohort from clinic. Results: Seven out of 13 patients completed at least 80% of their SAVT sessions and were analyzed. The ΔPJP after the control phase was −2.7 ± 1.7 W/kg (mean ± SEM), SAVT was +2.8 ± 0.6 W/kg (p < 0.05) and from the natural history cohort was −2.4 ± 0.8 W/kg/year. Conclusions: SAVT is well tolerated and may improve muscle power in mitochondrial disease patients.

References