Centrifugation as a countermeasure during bed rest and dry immersion: What has been learned?

Abstract

We review the studies that have evaluated intermittent short-radius centrifugation as a potential countermeasure for cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and sensorimotor deconditioning in simulated weightlessness. Methods: The findings from 18 experimental protocols that have used bed rest and dry immersion for comparing the protective effects of centrifugation versus standing upright or walking, and the effects of continuous vs. periodic exposure to centrifugation are discussed. Results: Centrifugation for as little as 30 min per day was found to be effective in mitigating orthostatic intolerance and strength in postural muscle after 5 days of bed rest, but it was not effective in mitigating plasma volume loss. Conclusion: To determine the optimal prescription for centrifugation as a ountermeasure, we recommend further studies using (a) bed rest of longer duration, (b) individualized prescriptions of centrifugation combined with exercise, and (c) functional performance tests.