Based on the results of this pilot study standing on vibrating plates offers a simple drug-free treatment for improving bone health in these children

Dr Kate Ward, University of Manchester

Dr Kate Ward, from the University of Manchester, who carried out the research into the device, said: "This is a novel approach to treatment and based on the results of this pilot study standing on vibrating plates offers a simple drug-free treatment for improving bone health in these children."

Improved bone density

The device is made up of a 30cm square heavy-duty plastic platform covering a series of springs.

The child can hold onto handlebars, like those on an exercise bike, and it can be very gently vibrated using a control panel.

It was initially tested on animals in the US.

Twenty children aged four to 19 took part in the UK study.

They either stood on active or inactive plates for 10 minutes a day, five days a week for six months.

At the end of the study, all the children who had stood on the active plates had increased the bone density in their legs, while none of those who had stood on the inactive plates saw any improvement.

Further trials of the device are planned.

Dignity 'crucial'

Richard Parnell, head of research and public policy for Scope, the organisation for people with cerebral palsy, told BBC News Online: "I am encouraged by the results of the research, but want more evidence of it's effectiveness.

"Also it is important that any treatment that may result from this work is carried out in a way that maintains the dignity of disabled people.

"Too often people with cp, especially children have been subjected to treatment that is under-researched and based on spurious science whilst at the same time costing a lot of money to deliver and having dubious outcomes."