The acute effects of vibratory stimuli during exercise on the sensorimotor control of the shoulder complex: A pilot study

BACKGROUND: Functional stability of the shoulder requires a balance of active forces, passive forces, and control subsystems of the joint complex. Although whole-body vibration enhances shoulder muscle function and proprioception, the impact of vibration on the sensorimotor control of the shoulder joint remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the acute effect of vibratory stimuli on the sensorimotor control of the shoulder joint. METHODS: Fifteen male participants (age, 22.7 ± 2.3 years) were included and performed the exercise in a modified push-up position with partial weight-bearing on a vibration platform with and without vibratory stimuli. The vibration protocol included six sets lasting for 30 s each with a 30-s rest between sets. The main outcome measures included the upper limb static stability test, Upper Quarter Y Balance Test (UQYBT), and electromyography data of the upper limb. RESULTS: Vibratory stimuli resulted in an increased UQYBT score (all directions; P< 0.01) and infraspinatus, serratus anterior, and lower trapezius muscle activity (P< 0.05) between pre- and post-exercise versus the control condition. Stabilometric parameters showed no significant interaction between condition and time. CONCLUSIONS: Vibratory stimuli could maximize training benefits while limiting injury risk for athletes. Our findings could guide the development of rehabilitation programs for patients with shoulder instability.