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Lulu835 Asked January 2020

Wondering about this fitness machine for my mom?

Has anyone had a positive experience with one of those Whole Body Vibration Machines that you stand on? They have a platform about the size of a large weight scale that you stand on while it vibrates. I have been wondering of this would be helpful for my 90 yr old mom. Thanks!

Countrymouse Jan 2020
I think you'll probably find that the machine's packaging and instruction manuals are plastered with warnings to seek medical approval before using it. When is this NOT a sensible precaution before introducing a 90 year old to new equipment or treatment?

worriedinCali Jan 2020
Those machines can be very beneficial for elders because they help build muscle tone. They are commonly used for osteoporosis patients, my hubbys physical therapist uses them but they have a big fancy machine. My moms doctor recommended she use one because of her osteoporosis but she didn’t take the advice. They are definitely not a waste of money. I have considered buying one myself, particularly the bluefin fitness whole body vibration machine, not sure if that is even what you have in mind. I like it because is has rails to hold on to.

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AlvaDeer Jan 2020
I would never try this without passing it past her doc. Vibration is not always a good thing, esp in the elderly. I might stop and ask at a physical therapy office as well. I honestly think this could be a real waste of money, and indeed perhaps harmful.
lealonnie1 Jan 2020
My dad used it for a few years, at 89-91 years old, and I myself have used it since 2009 Alva. So much for a 'waste of money and perhaps harmful'. With no firsthand experience or knowledge of the product, why bother commenting?
lealonnie1 Jan 2020
I have one; had it for years. Bought one for my folks, too. Mom refused to stand on it b/c it might help her and then she'd have nothing to complain about! Dad liked it a lot, though. He had neuropathy and felt it helped his leg muscles.

I will warn you.........the vibrations are VERY violent! Depending on the model you get, you can tone it down to a lower level, otherwise your teeth will chatter and you feel like urinating every few minutes..........LOL.

I've had positive experience with the machine myself, so I do recommend it. A new study published by the Endocrine Society, found that whole body vibration actually mimics the muscle and bone health benefits of regular exercise. Therefore, using something like a vibrating plate is as good as a cardio session.

Good luck!
Countrymouse Jan 2020
I was going to ask if the OP had tried it herself - it's good to get information from somebody who has! Thank you.

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