Vibration plate physiotherapy is reemerging as one of the more innovative exercise approaches of the day. But this exercise technique isn’t a recent invention and it has been in use for well over four decades. Its wide spread reemergence is due to the fact that a number of exercise equipment companies have developed lower cost manufacturing techniques that make them economically viable for health clubs and even home gyms.

The modern theory of vibration physiotherapy was developed in the 1960′s in East Germany and the Soviet Union, both whom were in a constant search for innovative exercise and recovery techniques. Later the technology was researched as an exercise option for space travel, where astronauts in zero-gravity lose significant muscle and bone density.

Using a vibrating plate stimulates muscle reaction by exerting a sort of virtual gravity on the body. According to research studies, a vibrating plate forces the muscles to react up to 23 times per second in a contraction and relaxation cycle. This is the basics of how and why vibration physiotherapy works.

In recent years, many professional sports teams have added vibration platforms to the training room. The platform is used before and after practice and actual game performance as a means to warm-up or cool down. Performing exercise on the platform is done to maximize the workout by adding micro contractions from the vibration plates to the primary exercise. Just about any exercise can be performed on a vibration platform from stretches to traditional weight bearing exercises with added benefit.

Vibration platforms are showing up more and more at gyms and health spas, and there are even home versions that are reasonably priced relative to other home gym equipment like treadmills and elliptical machines.

Those with joint issues, back issues or other injuries also find vibration plate physiotherapy a welcome, low-impact way to get exercise. Even simply standing on a vibration platform for ten to fifteen minutes stimulates the muscles of the body and provides a significant exercise benefit.

A UK Based company called Reviber have developed some great products for vibration plate physiotherapy.