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Inversion tables seem to be the product of the future for people with chronic back pain. They are appealing because they are very compact and can easily be stored out of site, in a closet as opposed to most standard exercise equipment. There a several basic components that are the same across brand in most inversion tables. There is of course a table to lie on that pivots to various angles, a mechanism that allows you to control how far you pivot and enables you to pull yourself back to an upright position, handles to grip, and a place to secure your ankles (you hang by them usually).

There are several different methods for beginning your inversion therapy. However, if you are a beginner it is important to start at the beginning level - usually there will be instructions in the manual accompanying the inversion table. If you can’t locate a manual, call the manufacture and request a manual or look for instructions online. Virtually the only way to injure yourself with an inversion table is to do too much too soon. It is recommended that even more advanced users come up every 5 minutes or so to a horizontal level for a brief break.

The benefits of inversion tables are still being discovered. Everyone who has studied inversion therapy is aware of the benefits that inversion can have regarding chronic back pain. Some participants are aware of the positive effect inversion tables can have on posture, flexibility and circulation (both cardiovascular and lymphatic). Other benefits are not as publicized but just as beneficial. For example, the inverted position is great on stress relief. It is very similar to several yoga positions designed specifically to relax the body and mind. There is also the benefit of reduced height shrinkage with age and a quicker recovery time after activities that can compress the spine or pull it out of alignment such as bowling, golf and running.

However, there are other techniques rather than simple inversion. The rocking motion is one technique that has been said to help heal back pain. It is suggested that this technique is begun a little while after a regular inversion session. Basically the participant rocks back to a 45-60 angle and then rocks forward to a nearly upright position before rocking back again. Doing this for a short time (only a minute or so) after a regular inversion session creates a pumping action that is believed to aid in the healing of discs. Discs do not have blood vessels and therefore must rely on movement to get nutrients. IT is believed that the rocking motion facilitates this process. However, this motion would only be beneficial to those with known disc problems.

Inversion tables are also equipped with a handy device usually called traction handles. Basically they are a place to put your hands when you’re inverted. Traction handles are a great addition to an inversion table because they can actually increase the benefits of inversion. They allow the participant to use their strong upper body muscles to increase the decompressive traction on the spine allowing you to go to more extreme angles. Remember to lock your arms in a straight position when attempting this move.

Inversion tables are a great holistic approach to overall well being. If you experience back pain it is recommended, after consulting with your doctor of course, that you try inversion therapy for several months before resorting to more extreme measures such as surgery.

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