23/08/2025
đ Evidence So Far
* Breast cancer-related lymphoedema: Small trials suggest vibration + drainage may improve arm volume and symptom relief (though evidence is mixed and still at pilot-study stage).
* Lipoedema: Very little direct research â but anecdotal reports and extrapolated data suggest vibration helps reduce pain, swelling, and tissue tightness when used alongside compression and exercise.
* Safety: Generally safe at low frequency (10â30 Hz) and low amplitude, but not recommended for:
* Active cancer
* Acute infection or cellulitis
* Uncontrolled cardiovascular disease
* Recent DVTâ¨â¨
Hereâs a breakdown of how vibration plates may work on the lymphatic system and inflammation:
1. Mechanical Pumping for Lymph Flow
đ For lymphoedema: this may reduce stagnation and assist decongestion.â¨đ For lipoedema: it doesnât reduce fat, but may help with symptoms of fluid retention and heaviness.
2. Improved Circulation & Microvascular Function
* Vibration increases blood flow by dilating capillaries and enhancing shear stress on vessel walls.
* Better circulation reduces tissue hypoxia and supports metabolic exchange, indirectly helping lymphatic drainage.
3. Effects on Inflammation
* Research shows vibration can modulate inflammatory cytokines
* Animal models with metabolic or vascular dysfunction show reduced chronic inflammation after vibration exposure.
đ For lymphoedema: less inflammatory signalling may slow fibrosis and skin changes.â¨đ For lipoedema: could help with the pain, tenderness, and low-grade inflammation linked to adipose tissue and microvascular fragility.
4. Neuromuscular and Connective Tissue Benefits
* Stimulates muscle pump action, enhancing lymphatic return.
* May reduce tissue stiffness and improve fascial glide, which is often impaired in both lymphoedema and lipoedema.
* Some small studies show reduced limb heaviness, better mobility, and less discomfort.
