Introduction: Upper limb function plays an important role in basic life activities such as feeding, dressing and personal hygiene. Since most daily activities are performed with both hands, the upper limbs must function in a coordinated manner and have sufficient capacity to perform their function. To improve the performance and function of the upper limbs, whole body vibration has been used. Vibration is a mechanical stimulus characterised by an oscillatory motion produced by a vertical or rotating vibration plate as the person attempts to maintain a specific position. The intensity of the vibrations is determined by frequency and amplitude. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe whole-body vibration therapy and determine if it has a positive effect on upper limb performance and function. Methods: A literature search was conducted in the Pubmed database, limited to the period from 2010 to 2021. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the PEDro scale. Results: Seven studies were selected. In five studies, subjects performed exercises on a vibration plate using different protocols. Two studies compared two experimental groups with a control group that received no vibration. One hour after vibration exposure, there was a significant improvement in muscle coordination and activation of the biceps brachii muscle, an increase in repetition rate and number of repetitions in a set, and an increase in blood growth hormones. Handgrip performance did not improve in any of the studies that measured this variable. Discussion and Conclusion: The studies reviewed demonstrate the effects of whole-body vibration on improving some components of muscle performance and upper limb function. Due to similar neurophysiological mechanisms, whole-body vibration could be an adjunct to strength training when used before or during exercise. The results of the reviewed studies with small groups and relatively homogeneous samples with different measurement instruments and protocols cannot be generalised to a broader population. Further high quality and better designed studies would be needed.
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