OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate whether whole-body vibration (WBV) has an anti-spastic effect on the ankle plantar flexors. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This single-blind, prospective, randomized-controlled clinical study included a total of 48 patients with chronic stroke (33 males, 15 females; mean age 60.7 +/- 10.9 years; range 25 to 80 years) between May 2019 and February 2020. They were randomized into two groups: WBV group (n = 24) and sham WBV group (n = 24). A training program of 12 sessions (three days a week for four weeks) was applied regularly in both groups. The spasticity degree of the plantar flexors was evaluated by using both a subjective assessment method (modified Ashworth scale (MAS)) and several objective assessment methods (Hmax/Mmax, homosynaptic post-activation depression (HPAD), and torque) before and after the training program. RESULTS: There were no significant changes in the torque values, Hmax/Mmax, and HPAD level after the training program in both groups (p > 0.05). However, the MAS score in the WBV group significantly decreased (-9.0%), but no change in the control group was observed (0.7%) (p = 0.027, effect size 0.32). CONCLUSIONS: The objective assessment methods for spasticity show that WBV has no anti-spastic effect.

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