The Effects of the Frequency of Vibration Application on the Acquisition of Head Erect Behavior in Prone

Abstract

This study utilized an alternating treatment design to investigate the effects of the frequency of vibration application on the acquisition of head erect behavior in the prone position in 4 preschool children with multiple handicaps. Frequency of head lifts and cumulative duration of head erect behavior were recorded during a 3 minute session with the child positioned prone over a wedge. Intervention consisted of vibration applied to the paraspinal neck and back extensor muscles for the first 2 minutes of each session. Intervention sessions randomly alternated between treatment once and twice a day, to assess the effects of the frequency of vibration application. Results of the study demonstrated no statistically significant differences in performance between treatment conditions. Limitations of the study and implications for future research, as well as the use of vibration as a therapeutic tool for facilitating motor behaviors are addressed.