Whole-Body Vibration or Aerobic Exercise in Patients with Bronchiectasis? A Randomized Controlled Study

Background and Objectives: The whole-body vibration (WBV) technique is an exercise training method. It has been reported to improve muscle strength, exercise capacity, and the quality of life. However, there is no study on the use of the WBV technique in bronchiectasis. The aim of the present study is to compare the effect of aerobic exercise with whole-body vibration on exercise capacity, respiratory function, dyspnea, and quality of life (QoL) in bronchiectasis patients. Materials and Methods: Clinically stable bronchiectasis patients aged 18-74 years participated in this study. A pulmonary function test, 6 minute walk test (6MWT), five times sit-to-stand test (FTSST), Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) Scale, an, St. Georges Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) were used in the evaluation. In total, 41 patients (WBV group: 20, aerobic group: 21) completed the study. The patients were treated for eight weeks. Results: When the two groups were compared after the treatment, there was a significant difference between the mMRC scores in favor of the WBV group (p < 0.05). When the results of the WBV group were examined before and after treatment, a significant difference was found between the 5SST and 6MWT (p < 0.05). When the aerobic group was compared before and after the treatment, it was observed that there was a significant difference in FVC, FVC%, 5SST, 6MWT, and SGRQ total score, and activity and impact scores, which are the sub-parameters (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Eight weeks of WBV exercise can lead to significant improvements in patients with bronchiectasis, exercise capacity, and dyspnea. Larger studies are needed to define the optimal intensity and duration of WBV, as well as to investigate its possible long-term effects.