As parents, caregivers, educators, and health professionals, our primary goal is to provide our children with the best environment for optimal growth and development. One fascinating area of study that has been gaining attention in recent years is the impact of vibration on brain development. From enhancing reflex integration to improving development of the sensory and motor systems, the benefits of incorporating vibration into everyday activities are vast and noteworthy.
Understanding Vibration and its Effects
Vibration, in the context of neurodevelopment, refers to the use of gentle, rhythmic movements or stimuli that can positively influence the brain's functioning. These vibrations can come from various sources, such as gentle rocking motions such as Rhythmic Movement Training International or equipment like a vibration plate. When applied correctly, these vibrations can trigger neurological responses that aid in the development of essential neural pathways.
The human body has its own vibratory frequency of 5 to 20 hz. Vibration stimuli of 20-70 hz is considered mildly stress stimuli which can induce positive changes at the molecular and cellular levels to alter cognitive function.
The Science Behind Reflex Integration and Vibration
Reflex integration plays a crucial role in a child's overall development. Reflexes are automatic, involuntary movements that are essential for survival and early motor development. However, some reflexes need to mature and integrate fully for optimal functioning. Vibration can stimulate and support these reflexes towards proper integration, leading to improved motor skills, coordination, and overall cognitive function.
Benefits of Vibration on Child Development
1. Enhanced Sensory Processing
Vibration can help enhance sensory processing by stimulating the proprioceptive system. If using a vibration plate, a child can stand on the plate and receive all of that proprioceptive input through their feet, which will travel up the entire body, activating all of their proprioceptors at once. Because they are standing and the board is moving, you are also stimulating the vestibular system. Both the proprioceptive and vestibular systems activate the RAS (see article here https://www.brain-works.org/post/the-reticular-activating-system-ras) which is the gatekeeper for sensory information. The RAS decides which sensory input continues up the pathways for further processing and what gets filtered out. Please see the article on RAS for more information about its function.
The sensory system develops in a particular order. Proprioception first, then vestibular, then auditory, then visual. Each system is dependent upon and intertwined with the ones below in order to function properly. So, by stimulating the foundational senses and strengthening them, we improve development and function of the other systems.
2. Improved Motor Skills
By promoting reflex integration, vibration can aid in the development of fine and gross motor skills. Children who receive appropriate sensory input through vibration may show improvements in coordination, balance, and strength.
3. Stress Reduction
Vibration has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system. This can be particularly beneficial for children with sensory processing issues or those who struggle with anxiety or hyperactivity.
4. Cognitive Enhancement
Research suggests that the application of vibration can positively impact cognitive function, including attention, memory, and executive functioning. By promoting neuroplasticity, vibration may help enhance learning and cognitive abilities in children. Improvements have been noted in selective attention, inhibition (being able to block out certain stimuli), auditory short-term memory, cognitive flexibility, visual attention, and visual-motor speed (Regterschot, Van Heuvelon, et al., 2014; Shantakumari & Ahmed, 2023).
One kind of proprioceptor we have is called a mechanoreceptor. These are specialized neurons that take information from sensory input and send it to the central nervous system. One study found that vibration of 30-40 hz (a speed of about 15-20 on a vibration plate) can stimulate the mechanoreceptors and improve the functioning of the prefrontal cortex, the home of executive function (Regterschot, Van Heuvelon, et al, 2014).
Vibration can also attenuate brain damage and neuroinflammation after a brain injury. Chen et al. (2022) also found that 30 Hz vibration could ameliorate learning and memory deficits caused by TBI.
Incorporating Vibration Into Daily Activities
Integrating vibration into daily routines can be simple and effective. Activities such as swinging on a hammock, using a vibrating pillow, or even playing on a therapy ball can provide the necessary sensory input for neurodevelopment. Additionally, specialized equipment such as vibration therapy platforms (a vibration plate) or sensory toys can be utilized under the guidance of a professional.
Research has shown that vibration around 30hz is the most effective frequency to promote cognitive change when using a vibration plate. The LifePro company has stated that a speed of 15 on their plates is equivalent to 30hz. For children with significant challenges with balance and proprioception, you may want to start at a lower speed, even 1 or 2 and only for a few minutes until you can build up tolerance. You can also incorporate visual-motor activities like playing catch, shooting nerf guns, or tossing bean bags. In my practice, I also use therapeutic music focused on sensory-motor integration from Unyte-ILS while they are on the vibration plate. In this scenario, we are using proprioception, vibration, auditory, and visual systems all at once, speeding up the entrainment and integration of those systems. One caveat-do not use therapeutic music, even SSP, in a child with significant sensory processing issues as the auditory system will not be mature enough to process the auditory information, and it can cause the brain to go into stress.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the benefits of vibration on neurodevelopment and child reflex integration are significant and far-reaching. By understanding the science behind vibration and its effects on the brain, we can take proactive steps to support our children's growth and development. Whether through sensory integration therapy, play-based activities, or everyday movements, incorporating vibration can be a valuable tool in promoting optimal neurodevelopment.
Embracing vibration's potential to enhance brain function is a step towards creating a supportive environment for children to thrive and reach their full potential. By recognizing the importance of sensory input and reflex integration, we can lay a solid foundation for healthy development and well-being in the children we care for.
Remember, every child is unique, and it's essential to consult with professionals to determine the most appropriate ways to incorporate vibration into a child's routine. Together, we can empower our children to grow, learn, and flourish in the best possible way.
If you would like to learn more about how to use vibration in conjunction with reflex integration to help your child, please contact Dr. Mary McKone at mary@brain-works.org
References
Buerma, A., Heesterbreak, M. et al (2018). Beneficial effects of whole body vibration in mice and humans. Dose Response 16(4). doi:10.1177/1559325818811756
Chen, T., Liu, W., Ren, X., Li, Y., Li, W., Hang, C., & Wang, Y. (2022). Whole Body Vibration Attenuates Brain Damage and Neuroinflammation Following Experimental Traumatic Brain Injury. Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 10, 847859. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcell.2022.847859
Regterschot, G. VanHeuvelan, M. et al. (2014). Whole body vibration improves cognition in healthy young adults. PLOSone. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.D100506
Shantakumari, N., & Ahmed, M. (2023). Whole body vibration therapy and cognitive functions: A systematic review. AIMS Neuroscience, 10(2), 130-143. https://doi.org/10.3934/Neuroscience.2023010
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