Emerging potential and research gaps of vibroacoustic therapy in neurorehabilitation: a narrative review

Abstract

Background: Vibroacoustic therapy (VAT) employs low-frequency sound vibrations in combination with therapeutic interventions to enhance neuromotor rehabilitation. It is increasingly explored for managing symptoms associated with neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy (CP), stroke, and multiple sclerosis (MS), including spasticity, proprioception, and neuroplasticity.

Objective: This review summarizes current evidence on VAT in neurorehabilitation, highlights its mechanisms of action, discusses clinical applications, and outlines future challenges and directions.

Methods: Relevant literature on VAT, including randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental studies, and systematic reviews, was synthesized to evaluate its therapeutic potential, feasibility, and emerging applications.

Results: VAT uniquely integrates mechanical oscillations with music, distinguishing it from conventional vibration therapies. Evidence supports its benefits in reducing spasticity, enhancing motor recovery, and improving sensory function in both paediatric and adult populations. VAT also shows promise in respiratory conditions and in home-based care using wearable technology. Despite its potential, VAT research remains limited, underfunded, and hindered by a lack of standardized treatment protocols.

Conclusion: VAT holds promise as a safe, non-invasive adjunct to conventional rehabilitation, particularly for CP and stroke. Standardization of protocols and large-scale clinical trials are required before widespread clinical adoption can be recommended.