Compression microvibration: Experience of using the method for the physiotherapeutic treatment of cellulite

BACKGROUND: Cellulite treatment and figure correction are among the most demanded requests in aesthetic medicine centers, which determines the high social and medical and economic significance of the problem, stimulates the active use of modern medical technologies.

AIM: evaluation of the effectiveness of the non-invasive method of compression microvibration in the treatment of cellulite in women of peri- and postmenopausal age.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A single center prospective cohort study was conducted in which 27 female volunteers with mild to moderate gynoid lipodystrophy took part. All participants completed the Endospheres Therapy course according to the standard protocol: 12 procedures for 60 minutes twice a week using the Endospheres Therapy Body compression microvibration apparatus. Before and after the completion of the course of procedures, anthropometric parameters (linear and weight dimensions of the body) were measured, fat, lean, active cellular and skeletal muscle mass, specific basal metabolism, total and extracellular fluid, bioimpedance phase angle were evaluated using bioimpedancemetry. To obtain a subjective assessment of the effectiveness and quality of the procedures received, all participants underwent anonymous testing.

RESULTS: Under observation were 27 women, who made up 3 clinical groups of 9 women each in accordance with age criteria: group 1 ― before menopause (age 40–49 years); group 2 ― menopause (50–59 years) and group 3 ― postmenopause (60–69 years). After the Endospheres Therapy course, the mean group body mass index values did not change, however, a weight loss of 3.4–7.4 kg, a decrease in waist and hips by 2.2–3.0–2.5 cm, 4.1–5.3–6.3 cm in the respective age groups. In the first group of participants, the fat mass index decreased by 16.4% (p <0.005), active cell mass increased by almost 15% (p <0.005), skeletal muscle mass ― by 13% (p >0.005), the specific basic metabolism ― by 10% (p <0.005), the value of phase angle after the course Endospheres Therapy increased statistically significantly by 16% (p <0.05). In other age groups, bioimpedance measurements were similar, but less pronounced. After the procedures, in some cases, study participants reported a slight tingling/squeezing sensation, slight muscle soreness, reminiscent of the state after exercise, and temporary slight redness of the skin.

CONCLUSION: The results obtained allow us to state the effectiveness and safety of the use of Endospheres Therapy in the treatment of cellulite, as a pathogenetically substantiated method of physiotherapy that affects the improvement of the skin condition, the transformation of the fat component, the increase in cell metabolism, muscle tone, stimulation of lymphatic drainage and tissue trophism.