Good vibrations may help elderly

A machine that can improve muscle and bone strength in the elderly has been trialled in hospitals in Nottingham.

The "Power Plate" sends vibrations through the body to work the muscles and help prevent falls and fractures.

The machine has also been tested on astronauts and athletes, and has been found to improve performance.

A 12-week trial at Nottingham City Hospital on 49 patients aged over 65 last year found it helped their recovery and rehabilitation.

Professor Tahir Masud, healthcare of the elderly consultant, said: "If the muscle strength increases in the legs, what we think will happen is that it should reduce the risk of older people falling over.

"And if the bone formation is increased, what'll happen is that the likelihood of breaking a bone or having a fracture will also go down."

He added his team intended to carry out more research into the field.

The study was funded by £22,000 from the National Osteoporosis Society and British Geriatric Society.