3 Best Vibration Plates to Soothe Neuropathy Symptoms
Choosing the Best Vibration Plate for Neuropathy Relief
Who would’ve thought that vibration could not only be the medium used to change one’s voice but also have therapeutic benefits?
That’s right.
Vibration therapy, also known as whole-body vibration (WBV), has been gaining traction in the world of healthcare, and rightfully so.
Neuropathy is one such enfeebling condition treated to give relief by vibration therapy. While there are many possible solutions, many patients are choosing a vibration plate for neuropathy.
What is Neuropathy?
Before we look at some of the best vibration plates for neuropathy and their benefits, let’s first understand what neuropathy is. In the human body, to transmit signals between the body and the brain, peripheral nerves are the ones that do the “talking”.
Nerves are like wires in your body that send messages between your brain and other parts of your body. They help you feel things, move your muscles, and control many functions. Think of them as the communication system of your body.
Neuropathy happens when these nerves get damaged or do not work properly. This can lead to various problems, such as pain, weakness, or numbness. Imagine if the wires in your home were frayed; the lights might flicker or not work at all. That’s similar to what happens in neuropathy.
So, in one sentence, “Neuropathy is a condition that affects the peripheral nervous system (PNS)”.
There are more than 100 variants of peripheral neuropathy. This may sound like it’s coming from a fiction book, but it’s not. And each of those comes with their symptoms.
For example:
- Peripheral Neuropathy: This affects the nerves in your arms and legs. It can cause tingling or pain in your hands and feet.
- Autonomic Neuropathy: This affects the nerves that control automatic functions like heart rate and digestion. It can lead to issues like sweating too much or not enough.
- Cranial Neuropathy: This affects the nerves in your head, which can impact your vision or facial movements.
Causes of Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be caused by various factors, including:
- Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage nerves over time.
- Infections: Certain infections can harm nerve tissues.
- Injuries: Physical injuries can lead to nerve damage.
- Toxins: Exposure to harmful substances, like heavy metals, can also cause neuropathy.
Common Symptoms and Causes of Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is mainly connected with diabetes. Over half of the people suffering from diabetes fall prey to neuropathy. The other ways it can develop are overexposure to poisons, alcoholism, injuries, infections, genetics, and low vitamin levels.
The following are the common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy:
- Muscle problems
- Lack of coordination and falling
- Burning or tingling sensation in a body part
- Oversensitivity to touch
- Fatigue
- Some may feel a loss of sensation in their hands or feet.
Related: 36 Best Foods for Diabetes: What To Eat & What to Avoid
Treatment Options
While there is no cure for neuropathy, treatments can help manage symptoms.
These may include:
- Medications: Pain relievers or medications specifically for nerve pain.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles and improve movement.
- Lifestyle Changes: Eating a healthy diet and managing conditions like diabetes can help.
- Vibration Plates: Yep, vibration plates can improve Neuropathy symptoms significantly.
How Can Vibration Plates Help with Neuropathy?
Multiple studies support the importance of a vibration plate for neuropathy.
In one study conducted in 2020, whole-body vibration (WBV) improved symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy by marginally decreasing baseline pain in neuropathy patients.
It was concluded that WBV significantly reduced patients’ pain after intervals. Moreover, WBV may restore walking balance and, in some cases, even improve gait in diabetic peripheral neuropathy patients.
Another study published in the Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders in 2020, found whole body vibration therapy beneficial for patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The research showed improvements in pain, balance, and quality of life after six weeks of therapy, compared to a control group receiving only standard care. The study used various tests to measure outcomes.
Worth mentioning this study were researchers tested vibrating foot insoles to help people with diabetic nerve damage. They made custom insoles that vibrate using special signals. Testing on 60 patients showed the insoles improved touch sensitivity in their feet, especially for those with mild to moderate nerve damage. This could help prevent foot ulcers and other problems in diabetics.
While there are several studies, these aren’t the only benefits of using a vibration plate for neuropathy.
Benefits of Vibration Plate for Neuropathy
The benefits of using a vibration plate are multidimensional.
1. Improving Circulation
Vibration plates improve blood circulation by increasing oxygen and blood flow to tissues and other muscles in the body.
The mechanism of a vibration plate is constructive. When you stand on a vibration plate, the vibrations cause your body to relax. When your body shakes, it creates a pumping action that helps to move oxygen and blood effectively.
Increased blood flow has many advantages that people may not know about. It can help deliver nutrients and other essential molecules to keep the body functioning well.
2. Reducing Pain
The vibration plate produces mechanical impulses that are transferred to the body through the feet. These impulses strengthen the joints and muscles, increasing circulation and blood flow—this can help subside pain.
In addition, vibration plates can increase the production of endorphins, chemicals that help relieve pain in the body.
3. Enhancing Nerve Regeneration
Vibration therapy can significantly improve blood circulation, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the nerves and promoting healing.
Additionally, it may help reduce inflammation, creating a more conducive environment for nerve regeneration. Some studies suggest that vibration therapy can stimulate the release of growth factors, which play a crucial role in nerve repair and regeneration.
4. Strengthening Muscles
Vibration therapy can activate muscle fibers, even at low intensity, leading to adequate muscle strength and tone. Vibration therapy enhances neuromuscular function by stimulating muscle contractions, which are essential for balance and coordination.
This can be particularly beneficial for neuropathy individuals who may experience muscle weakness and atrophy.
Top 3 Vibration Plates for Neuropathy
With many vibration plates for neuropathy are there in the market, choosing the best becomes a headache. Not anymore. We’ve done that for you. Here are the top 3 vibration plates for neuropathy.
1. Sonix Sonicwave Vibration Device
- Dimensions: 27 x 29 x 57 inches
- Weight: 103 pounds
- Weight capacity: 227 pounds
- Best for: People looking to boost their overall health and well-being with daily vibration.
Why it’s a good choice:
Thanks to its versatility, value, and proficiency, Sonix Sonicwave is a great choice for neuropathy. It helps stimulate nerves and bring blood flow to the skin, helping with neuropathy pain.
What speaks the most about Sonix Sonicwave is that it comes with a training program of frequency stimulation. This refers to applying electrical pulses at different intervals to relax muscles for various treatments.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Is a vibration plate good for neuropathy?” This plate answers that question for you. The plate offers a workout-like experience that can improve gait and support post-operative rehab.
2. Life Pro Waver Vibration Plate
- Dimensions: 29.5 x 18 x 6 inches
- Weight: 38.5 pounds
- Weight capacity: 500 pounds
- Best for: Intermediate to advanced users who need a robust plate for upper and lower body workouts
Why it’s a good choice:
LifePro’s Rumblex Plus 4D vibration plate offers both oscillating vibrations and tri-plane, so you can get a powerful workout and recovery in just one plate.
This plate is a good choice for intermediate and advanced users because it comes with multiple options to accelerate your workout.
At the low intensity, the plate allows us to perform complex standing exercises, and the high intensity, it serves the purpose of not throwing us off the balance. This is exactly what we should look for in a vibration plate.
3. VT-20A Vibration Plate
- Dimensions: 28.3 x 24.4 x 53.9 inches
- Weight: 105 pounds
- Weight capacity: 330 pounds
- Best for: Beginners who are looking for a space-economical vibration plate.
Why it’s a good choice:
The VT-20A vibration plate is a versatile fitness tool designed to provide a wide range of health benefits. Its advanced vibration technology, including side-alternating rocking movement and customizable settings, makes it suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels.
From improved circulation and muscle tone to enhanced balance and reduced pain, the VT-20A can help you achieve your desired fitness goals.
Its compact and portable design, quiet operation, and durable construction make it a convenient and effective addition to your home workout routine.
Tips for Using a Vibration Plate for Neuropathy
- Start Slow: When beginning vibration therapy, it’s essential to start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration and intensity as you become accustomed to the vibrations. This can help prevent discomfort and allow your body to adjust to the therapy.
- Use Proper Technique: Ensure you’re using the vibration plate correctly. Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart and engage your core muscles. Adjust the intensity to a comfortable level, avoiding excessive pain or discomfort.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body’s signals. If you experience any discomfort or pain, reduce the intensity or stop the session. It’s important to listen to your body’s cues and avoid overexertion.
- Consult a Doctor: Before starting vibration therapy, consult with your healthcare provider to discuss its potential benefits and risks. They can assess your individual situation and provide personalized guidance.
- Combine with Other Treatments: Vibration therapy can be used as a complementary treatment alongside other therapies for neuropathy. It can be combined with medications, physical therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or lifestyle modifications to enhance overall outcomes.
Bottom Line
Vibration therapy offers a promising approach for managing neuropathy. With careful consideration and proper use, vibration plates can be a valuable tool in your journey to better health.
Prioritize your needs, carefully assess the top 3 vibrate plates mentioned in the blog and pick the one that fits your needs.
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