2024-12-29202210.5606/tftrd.2022.103912-s2.0-85146531384https://doi.org/10.5606/tftrd.2022.10391https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14288/23518Objectives: 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 (H-max/M-max, homosynaptic post-activation depression [HPAD], and torque) before and after the training program. Results: There were no significant changes in the torque values, H-max/M-max, 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). Conclusion: The objective assessment methods for spasticity show that WBV has no anti-spastic effect.RehabilitationJournal article2587-12501025675200005Q341661