Effect of whole-body vibration on microcirculation in critically ill patients

Background: Microcirculatory dysfunction represents a key pathophysiological mechanism in critically ill patients. Whole-body vibration (WBV) has been investigated as a non-invasive intervention with potential effects on microcirculation. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the acute effect of WBV applied in a seated position on systemic microcirculation in patients at the second stage of rehabilitation. Method and Material: This was an experimental repeated-measures study including 39 participants (18 patients, 21 healthy individuals). WBV was applied in a seated position in all participants, while in healthy individuals it was additionally applied in a standing position for comparative evaluation. Patients also underwent passive mobilization using a cycle ergometer. Microcirculation was assessed using near-infrared spectroscopy in combination with vascular occlusion, before and after each intervention. Results: In the overall sample, seated WBV led to a reduction in the reperfusion index (RS: 3.0±1.1 to 2.7±1.0 %/min, p=0.02). In healthy individuals, RS decreased significantly (p0.05). Standing WBV did not affect microcirculatory indices but resulted in increased heart rate and systolic blood pressure (p