Vibratory therapy (VT) as an intervention involves the application of mechanical vibration (MV) to the human body (HB). VT has a potential therapeutic or training approach for various health conditions. The relevance of MV to the promotion of health is highlighted by the presence of mechanoreceptors at superficial and internal levels of the HB. In the VT, MV is transmitted to the individual who is in contact with a device that generates this vibratory stimulus. In systemic vibratory therapy (SVT), whole-body vibration exercise is produced when the MV generated in vibrating platforms is transmitted to the HB. Relevant effects of SVT are improvements in bone mineral density, muscular strength, cognition, quality of life, and functional abilities, and reductions in pain and risk of falls. MV can be also delivered locally in local vibratory therapy (LVT), wherein the vibratory stimulus is generated in small and portable vibrators, and applied directly to a region of the HB, over the tendon or muscle belly. Effects of LVT have been also reported to improve neuromuscular performance and functionality in different populations.

Although VT is used in various clinical applications, its specific benefits for managing endocrine disorders are not thoroughly investigated. The intriguing potential of VT in hormone regulation and metabolic enhancement is seen as an innovative approach to treating conditions like osteoporosis, obesity, diabetes, and thyroid dysfunction, yet scientific evidence remains sparse. Moreover, other kinds of devices that generate MV have been also used in clinical applications.

This Research Topic aims to explore the role of VT in endocrine health, focusing on its potential to modify hormonal balance, foster metabolic health, and assist in the management of specific endocrine disorders. The goal is to investigate its effects rigorously across different types of endocrine diseases, assessing both opportunities and limits presented by this treatment modality.

To gain deeper insights into the precise applications of VT in the context of endocrine disorders, we welcome papers focusing on, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Hormonal Regulation: Analysis of how VT influences hormone secretion and balance, especially in ailments like thyroid and adrenal disorders.

- Bone Health and Osteoporosis: Examination of its impact on bone mineral density and its viability as a possible treatment for bone degeneration linked to hormonal issues.

- Metabolic Disorders: Research into its effects on metabolic functions such as glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, with a focus on metabolic syndrome, obesity and diabetes.

- Mechanisms of Action: Studies delving into the biological mechanisms enabling VT to impact endocrine and metabolic systems.

- VT in Pediatric Endocrinology: Investigations into its use for pediatric growth-related hormone disorders.

- Clinical Applications and Safety: Comprehensive studies on the therapeutic or training potential, limitations, and safety considerations of using VT in endocrine treatments.

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Frontiers in Endocrinology

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