Hello All:
Here's hoping that 2010 is a good year for all.
My question is: Does anyone in the club use a Vibration Plate Machine as a form of exercise? Or has anyone been advised by their medical advisers as to whether or not to use them? And, if not, why? Any experiences would be greatly appreciated.
Best to all. Thanks
Nick1948

 

 

Check on your model and the exact type of machine it is, but they're probably ok. When I was in physical therapy a while back they wanted to use one. The therapist called St Judes and my cardiologist to clear it first, both said it was safe and I felt fine on it.

 

Hi Nick,

I'm participating in a special cardio training programm for heart patients, and although the center where I go to has those vibration plate machines, our trainer always tells us that those should not be used by heart patients in general. I don't understand why this is a no-no for all heart patients, but I understand why it is for me: one of my rate response sensors, the accelerometer, would react to these vibrations and so my heart rate would speed up.
I have also heard that these kinds of vibrations are not good for all kinds of computer chips, including those inside out pacers. But Frank might know more about that.

Best wishes
Inga

 

Thank you very much for your comments. My research is showing that opinions are very split on this technology. I have tried a machine a couple of times with no ill effects, in fact it really makes me feel better and I feel that not
used excessively, no harm would be done. Am going to ask my Doctor at next appointment, but feel he will say no just because of being afraid of any liability.
Thanks again,
Nick

 

Some rate-responsive pacemakers use a piezoelectric sensor that adjusts rate based on vibration. These devices will drive up the rate if the sensor picks up vibrations. Maybe that is the reason?

Most newer pacers with rate response now use accelerometers (they measure acceleration rather than vibration). So this would only apply to some (not all) pacemakers.