WHOLE body vibration (WBV) training may trigger itch and erythema in a significant portion of users, with side-to-side vibration devices posing a higher risk, according to a new multicenter study.
Despite growing popularity in rehabilitation and fitness settings, WBV devices may have overlooked dermatologic side effects. In a cross-sectional questionnaire study involving 67 WBV users and 15 therapists, researchers found that 22% of users experienced itch, erythema, or both—symptoms that often began during the first session and persisted with repeated use. These reactions, while not severe enough to warrant stopping WBV entirely, raise questions about awareness and reporting of such effects.
The findings indicate that the type of WBV device matters. Side-to-side alternating vibration machines were associated with a pooled symptom prevalence of 31.4%. In contrast, no participants reported skin symptoms when using tri-planar devices, a statistically significant difference (P<0.001). This suggests that mechanical factors such as vibration pattern may influence the likelihood of dermatologic responses. The researchers note that although anecdotal accounts of WBV-induced itch have circulated in non-medical forums, formal evidence of prevalence had been lacking. Their study is among the first to quantify the issue across multiple centers, emphasizing the need for greater awareness among healthcare professionals, particularly in sports medicine, dermatology, and physical therapy. Importantly, none of the participants required discontinuation of therapy, and no long-term adverse effects were reported. However, the recurring nature of the symptoms, and their clear association with specific vibration patterns, suggest that clinicians should consider adjusting device settings or platforms in cases of user discomfort. As WBV technology continues to be adopted in clinical and at-home settings, these findings highlight the need for informed usage and monitoring of side effects, even those that may initially appear minor or cosmetic. Reference: Brandt O Mueller SM. Bad vibrations? The prevalence of itch and erythema induced by whole body vibration training: a questionnaire-based study in users and therapists. Ital J Dermatol Venereol. 2025;160(3):212-8.
