Stochastic resonance training reduces musculoskeletal symptoms in metal manufacturing workers: A controlled preventive intervention study

Objectives: This study examined the effects of stochastic resonance whole-body vibration training on work-related musculoskeletal symptoms and accidents. Participants: Participants were white and blue-collar employees of a Swiss metal manufacturer (N=38), and participation was voluntary. Methods: The study was designed as a switching-replications longitudinal trial with randomized group allocation. The randomized controlled cross-over design consisted of two groups each given four weeks of exercise and no intervention during a second four-week period. Outcome was measured on a daily basis with questionnaires. Three components constituted musculoskeletal symptoms: musculoskeletal pain, related function limitations and musculoskeletal well-being. Accidents were assessed by ratings for balance and daily near-accidents. For statistical analysis, a mixed model was calculated. Results: At the end of the training period musculoskeletal pain and related function limitation were significantly reduced, whereas musculoskeletal well-being had significantly increased. For function limitation and musculoskeletal well-being, change over time was linear. There was no effect on balance or near-accidents. Conclusions: Stochastic resonance whole-body vibration was found to be effective in the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms. It is well suited for the use in a work environment since it requires very little effort in terms of infrastructure, time and investment from participants.