Another Conservative Therapy for Lipedema – Vibration Plates

Hi friends,

I’m sitting here at my desk, using my vibration plate under my desk, almost like a footstool.  It feels so good, and for me, really helps relieve some pain and pressure I get in my legs when I’m having swelling.

Because of where my plate is located, I have lots of opportunities to use it throughout the day and it doesn’t take extra time from other tasks so it’s a win.  I end up turning it on at the beginning of each day and using it before I shower and put on compression.  I get the best movement then.  After I’ve put on compression, I use the plate as often as I want while I’m at the computer or enjoying crafts or reading from my office.  It’s turned into a tool that helps move lymphatic fluid and just plain feels good.

Here’s what it looks like when I use the plate WITH compression (also, thanks YouTube thumbnail generator for making my leg look really LONG – LOL!):

There aren’t a lot of studies about using vibration plates for lipedema, but SO many people who are seasoned patients add the use of vibration into their conservative therapy routines, that we would be remiss to not bring them up.  In fact, there’s a facebook group called, “Vibration for Fat Disorders” that is moderated by a true vibration plate expert who can really answer a lot of questions. She also has a lot of really great information in the pinned posts area of the group for newbies.

Here’s what it looks like when I use the plate without compression – HUGE difference in movement!

Of the three studies I found, I learned that vibration was proven to increase skin blood flow after only three minutes on the plate. Another study showed that vibration needs to be used in conjunction with strength training to get the best results (so don’t think of using a vibration plate as your only exercise for good health!).

According to Total Lipedema Care’s website, “Dr. Karen Herbst, personally uses and recommends whole-body vibration as an easy form of exercise and publicly touts its remarkable, game-changing capacity to move stubborn, stuck lymph and boost blood flow. Herbst first discovered the unexpected benefits of whole-body vibration while researching ways for her clients to boost lymphatic flow.  Herbst found the unusual fitness form improved clients’ muscle tone, which subsequently reduced their overall body fat over time.  With consistent practice, the gel-like substance trapped deep in the fatty tissue began to liquefy due to the warming of the muscles during WBV.  Lesser impact than walking, WBV is easier on the joints, which is especially beneficial for those whose lipedema has limited their mobility.  Herbst affirms WBV be used in conjunction with other remedies to yield the most desirable results for lipedema patients.  A staunch advocate for WBV, Herbst endorses Lifepro’s vibration plates to mitigate the debilitating effects of lipedema, while improving overall health and body fitness.”

Contraindications for use of Vibration Plates

There is a long list of contraindications for using vibration plates.  I’m linking to the biggest list I could find from Vibrant Health’s Website.  Note that there are some absolute NO conditions, and then some conditions where you might use the plate after consulting with your doctor.  The one I see that really stands out for me is no use for 6 months after joint replacements.

How I use my Plate

I use my plate sitting down because I have knees that dislocate / subluxate without warning and both need to be replaced.  This is very easy on my joints, and I’ve never had pain using the plate.  Also, again, I’m able to multitask at my computer because my plate is under my desk.

I use a LifePro Waver with a 330 lb. weight capacity ($199, although I see this one go on sale from time to time).   I bought it on Amazon.  Note they do make a LifePro “Rumblex” plate that comes up to a 500 lb. capacity.  At the time of this post, this one cost $359.  So it’s not a terrible investment.

I use it for 15 minutes at a time several times a day, but at least once without compression to get the best movement (just my preference).  My favorite setting is number 86 because the wiggle is CRAZY and I like the way it feels.

I hope this helps someone today.  I love using my plate and feel such a sense of relief afterwards and I want that for you, too!

Susan

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Some Resources for Further Reading

Fjeldstad C, Palmer IJ, Bemben MG, Bemben DA. Whole-body vibration augments resistance training effects on body composition in postmenopausal women. Maturitas. 2009;63:79–83. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19386449 https://www.maturitas.org/article/S0378-5122(09)00103-0/fulltext or Google Scholar Link