Types of vibration

High-intensity whole-body vibration (WBV) machines can be seriously damaging to those with bone conditions such as osteoporosis due to the magnitude of the force it exerts on the body. Low-intensity Vibration is far gentler and is safe for use by everyone and has no side effects or contraindications for use. 

Low-intensity Vibration (LiV) provides a precise, low acceleration, low-level vibration (0.4g) which is transmitted at a high frequency (30Hz) to the person standing on the device. This type of vibration mimics the small high-frequency contractions exerted by muscles onto the bone. 

This is not the case for high-intensity, whole-body vibration (WBV) plates that exert a high acceleration, high-level vibration of well over 1g. This carries a high potential risk, has many contraindications and is best for people who are fit, active and healthy and can tolerate extreme forces and accelerations. These high-intensity WBV signals are well beyond those considered safe by OSHA or ISO.

Human tolerance for vibration

The Low-intensity Vibration signal provided by the Marodyne LiV device is categorised as safe by the International Safety Organisation (ISO) for daily use of up to 4 hours.

LiV has proven benefits at substantially lower levels. Scientific evidence has demonstrated that just 10 minutes a day is effective at preventing osteoporosis and improving musculoskeletal health.

The above graph is from ISO 2631 Mechanical vibration and shock evaluation of human exposure to whole-body vibration. It highlights the potential dangers of WBV when compared to the gentle and safe LiV.

High-intensity WBV won’t treat osteoporosis, it could make your condition – and your health – a whole lot worse. Take the gentle approach and use the Marodyne LiV device if you have or are at risk of osteoporosis.