Vibration Therapy for Bones
Bone Building using the Marodyne LiV (Low intensity Vibration)
Whole body vibration was originally used as a means to build bone density for astronauts as they lose bone quite rapidly floating about in space. The vibration plate like weight bearing activities, enables muscles and bones to work against gravity.
Recently though, it has been considered as a possible therapeutic intervention for increasing bone density in those who have osteoporosis. Some studies have shown that the effect of using this device is not too dissimilar to the positive effects of those gained from doing short term resistance exercise.
There are various vibration plates on the market but not all are safe or suitable and they do vary sharply in price. The one I use which is recommended by Dr Nick Birch (orthopedic spinal consultant) is called the Marodyne LiV and is designed to be used for 10 minutes a day, standing still and upright because in this position, the frequency and amplitude of the vibrations are optimised to be exactly right for your legs, hips and back. According to Marodyne, any detectable difference with regards to an increase in bone density will vary for each individual. You may also experience improvements in muscle strength , balance, pain relief and general fitness sooner, especially if used in conjunction with a healthy calcium – protein rich diet along with strength and resistance training. It is thought this device may help to stimulate your circulation including the supply of nutrients to build bone.
Other Vibration Platforms
In comparions, most vibration machines in gyms have a larger platform with a much higher and more powerful G- force output. I tried this in the distant past a few years ago and found it to be too strong as the high intensity gym plate vibrates at 50-80 Hz and 8g. This type of vibration plate is not recommended for individuals with weaker bones. These machines focus more on strength training and are unlikely to offer the same clinical benefits according to some studies.
The Marodyne – |How does it work?
After 35 years of research studying a variety of frequencies it was found that the Marodyne vibrating at 30 Hz and 0.4g was safest at boosting bone density. The 0.4g refers to the impact the Marodyne works at G force. This is lower than the impact of walking which is roughly 1.2g. However the question arises : is it powerful enough to make a significant difference? According to the research done in developing this device, vibration at 30Hz is equal to a low intensity, high frequency mechanical stimulus that is used in therapeutic applications to stimulate bone and muscle growth without causing damage. From my own experience, I find it gives a gentle vibration and a comfortable, relaxing sensation that vibrates up the body from the feet. I have found from using it daily, that it eases any muscular niggles I may have (from time to time) in my hip or lower back.
How this works is not completely understood but here is one hypothesis. When you stand on it, it sends tiny vibrations throughout your body. This causes muscles to contract rapidly which increases circulation and oxygen to supply the body cells with nutrients required to build bone. In other words, vibration signals transmit and amplify into bone tissue bringing nutrients to build bone.
Another hypothesis suggests that it improves muscle strength and power by increasing neuro muscular activation as in weight bearing exercise.
The cost
One major disadvantage is its cost. It currently retails at £2,800 if you have a diagnosis of osteoporosis or a general medical condition ( refer to an approved list). Osteopenia is not included in this list, so without this discount it retails around £3,300. The The Marodyne while expensive, is generally regarded as a safe device.
Using the Marodyne
It is easy to set up and the instructions are straightforward. The platform should be set up on a flat level floor (laminate or tiled floor is ideal) but not on carpet. You simply stand tall in the correctly placed foot position for 10 minutes each day, in socks or bare feet. No shoes. When prompted by the 5 second count down, you step on it and place your feet level with the logo and stand tall in good posture. However, consistency in using it, is key!
Does it work – Its efficiacy ?
Independent research studies * conclude that body vibration platforms in general are still investigational for osteoporosis and low BMD and that there may be modest effects. Vibration Therapy is something that should be perceived as an adjunct along with strength, balance,weight bearing exercise and nutrition. It should not be regarded as a replacement for bone medication treatment for those with high risk osteoporosis .
My experience in using Vibration Therapy
I started using the Marodyne fairly recently towards the end of this year in November 2025. As yet it is too soon for me to declare any significant results but I am happy to see if using it regularly can make a positive difference to my bone density. I enjoy using it around the same time each morning and find that 10 minutes passes very quickly when reading, supporting a book on a high stand whilst standing tall. I am not on bone meds at present which is my own personal decision. However, I look forward to having my next combined REMS and DEXA scan in October 2026 and hopefully, the outcome may reveal a positive result.