Inversion Table

If you are in your thirties, it is likely that you have experienced throbbing pain at the lower part of your back. Perhaps, you have been frustrated by the unpredictable and uncontrollable nature of the phenomenon’s occurrence. The pain just comes all of a sudden and you feel helpless and unable to do anything at that point in time. However, if it makes you feel better, then you should know that you are not the only young, agile and virile individual who has experienced this unpleasant situation.

What is Lower Back Pain?

This particular type of pain is known as lower back pain. It can also be sometimes referred to as lumbar spine pain. As a matter of fact, lower back pain takes several forms. It could be a niggling pain developed due to an injury. Conversely, it could just be spontaneous, without any obvious cause. Yet still, the lower back pain you are experiencing could be the outward manifestation of a different medical condition. Furthermore, the pain you feel could be a sharp twinge that occurs very briefly. On the other hand, it is possible for you to experience back pain continuously over a long period of time. However, one thing that is quite certain is that lower back pain is both painful and unwanted.

Several ways of dealing with lower back pain have been evolved over the years. While most of these methods have not been medically or scientifically proven to be beneficial, clear and practical improvements have been noticed among people who have opted for these methods. Due to the prevalence of lower back pain, we have decided to provide you with a detailed post that deals with one of the most effective methods of treating lower back pain – the use of an inversion table. We’ll explain just how to use an inversion table for lower back pain. However, before we get to that, let us take a closer look at how lower back pain happens.

Why Do You Experience Lower Back Pain?

In order to really understand how lower back pain develops in the spine, it might be necessary to delve into a little bit of anatomy. The human vertebral column has thirty-three short bones known as vertebrae. Of these thirty-three vertebrae, the upper 24 are unfused. This is because they are separated from each other by a thin layer known as an intervertebral disc. The nine vertebrae at the lower part are however fused into each other directly.

The spinal cord, which we are more interested in, is made up of only the 24 upper segments. It is very important to the body and plays a vital role as the main pathway through which nerve signals are transmitted from the brain to other parts of the body. Furthermore, it also provides support for the body. The 24 unfused upper vertebrae are classified into three areas based on their location in the spine. The seven vertebrae at the top are collectively referred to as cervical vertebrae, the next 12 vertebrae are known as the thoracic vertebrae while the remaining five, that are found at the tail end of the spine, are called lumbar vertebrae.

It is important to know that each vertebra in the column bears the weight of all the vertebrae stacked up on top of it. This then implies that vertebrae that are located in the lower area bear more weight than those that are located in the upper part. This means that the lowest vertebra carries the weight of all the other vertebrae in the spine while the uppermost vertebra only bears the weight of the head.

This overlying weight exerts pressure on the underlying vertebra. The more the weight, the more the pressure exerted. Consequently, it is normal that the lower vertebrae are more susceptible to wear, tear and degradation.

Once the lower spine suffers any deformity or sees a significant change in the level pressure, it makes an outward manifestation in the form of back spasms and pain. This is the reason behind the persistence of lower back pain

Inversion Table

Any mechanism that is geared towards relieving the pressure on the spine or ameliorating back pain is classified as traction therapy. Nowadays, there are many different approaches that can be used to tackle lower back pain. However, one of the most popular methods is the use of inversion table. Inversion therapy is traction therapy in which the individual undertaking the therapy is required to be ‘inverted’. By being inverted, you lie at a downward angle in such a way that the head is at a lower level than your legs. It does not necessarily imply that you should turn completely upside down. It is based on the principle of reverse gravity. If you are in an inverted position, your lower spine will be above the cervical and thoracic vertebrae. This will reduce the weight on your lower spine and as a result, ease the pain you feel there.

An inversion table itself is a rotating board (switch) that is attached to a metal casing. This enables your body to play out a flip-flop development securely. Your lower legs are safely kept up by an astute framework. Thanks to this system, you do not need much effort to put yourself in an inclined or totally inverted position. Also, you will not feel any distress in your feet and shins while making use of an inversion table.

Essentially, it is a fitness and bodybuilding tool. However, it can also be additionally used in the treatment of back pain or just to unwind at night following full time work. Its advantages are various.

How to Use it for Lower Back Pain

It is important to know the basic parts of an inversion table in order to have an understanding of how to safely and effectively use it. Below are the basic features of a typical inversion table.

• Headrest – The headrest is not a constant feature of inversion tables. This is because most inversion tables do not necessarily require one. These inversion tables have cushioned backrests that extend as far as your head. Usually, headrests are extensions of the backrests. Therefore it is possible for you to have an inversion table that does not come with a headrest.
• Backrest – A backrest is a guaranteed feature on every inversion table. A backrest is a bed-like part on an inversion table that you lie on when inverting. There are different types and designs of backrests available. You can have an inversion table with a plastic backrest or one with just a durable fabric sewn around the frame. It is also possible to get padded backrests for enhanced comfort. It depends on your desires and budget.
• Side Handles – A pair of side handles may also be present on either side of an inversion table. You can hold onto them for support and balance when inverting or coming back upright. If you are a newcomer, you will find this useful. People who are experienced in the art of inverting do not really need them.
• Inversion Angle Limitation System – This is another feature you will find on every inversion table. It allows you to set a maximum angle of inversion if you do not want to invert completely upside down.
• Inversion Table Frame – The backrest is held by the frame. It is usually sturdy and has plastic caps fitted to its base to prevent it from damaging the floor. You should check the weight capacity of an inversion table frame before buying one. This will enable you to know whether it can carry your weight or not.
• Ankle Securing Lever – This enables you to fasten your ankles in place. It is a spring device that you can adjust to fit the size of your ankles so that you can keep them in place, regardless of their size.
• Ankle Holders – Ankle holders are a pair of padded rollers or plastic holders that are shaped like a cup.
• Footrest– This is where you put your feet when you step onto the table. It is a metal piece that is located just below the ankle holders.

Essentially, aside from additional ostentatious features, these are the basic features of an inversion table. Now that you are familiar with these parts, you can proceed to learn how to use the table. We provide you with a step-by-step guide in the following section.

• Assemble the Table

Inversion tables, by default, come unassembled from the factory. Therefore, the very first thing you need to do when your inversion table arrives is usually assemble it into one piece. Most manufacturers include a manual/guide which details how to assemble their inversion tables. Therefore, if you follow the instructions in the manual, assembling the inversion table should not be a particularly challenging task.

• Adjust the Height of the Inversion Table

Once you assemble the inversion table, you can start using it. It is, however, necessary for you to adjust the height to suit your own height. Again, just like the assembling, this is also a simple process. Every inversion table has a scale that is located directly below the bed. This scale has the heights that are available for that inversion table listed on it. On the side of the bar, there are holes that correspond to each marked height.

You can then adjust the height of the inversion table by allowing the height adjustment tube to slide either up or down, depending on your height, until it gets to your required height. To do this, all you have to do is to pull the adjustment knob that is located on the side of the bar. Do ensure to lock the inversion table to that height by releasing the spring on the adjustment knob.

Adjusting the height of the table is very important in order to maintain balance. It enables you to carry on with your inversion in a steady and controllable manner. For example, if you set the height of the table too low for your height, the rate of inversion will be faster than you want. Conversely, putting the height too high will make it difficult for you to invert. Hence, it is always recommended that you adjust the height of the table.

• Set the Inversion Angle Limit

It is not advised that you go all the way down at once when inverting. If you are new to the art of inversion, it is best that you take things gradually and go from low angles before slowly going steeper. In view of this, manufacturers of inversion tables have a feature that allows you to set a limit for the angle of inversion. Your inversion table is definitely going to have either a tether strap, a spring pin system, or an iControl brake.

These devices are included to help you restrict the maximum angle of tilt of inversion. The table will not tilt beyond the preset angle. They are quite easy to use.

Tether Strap: To use the tether strap as your tilt angle limiting device, simply adjust its length to suit your preference. This is done exactly the same way you would adjust the adjustable strap on your backpack. The shorter the strap is, the smaller the angle of inversion. In the same vein, a longer strap will allow a steeper angle of inversion.

Spring Pin System: There are graduated holes that indicate tilt angles of the inversion table. To set a maximum angle of inversion, you only need to put the pin into the hole which corresponds to your desired angle. There is no hole for 90⁰. Remove the pin completely if you want to go at full tilt.

iControl Disk Brake System: Some inversion tables make use of a system known as the iControl brake. It is a lever that you can pull to lock the table in place at any angle of your choice.

• Inspect the Inversion Table

Your safety must come first. Hence, it is always wise to double-check your arrangements and settings in order to be sure that everything is in order. Check that you have properly carried out the above mentioned procedure. Tilt the table to see the extent of the tilt angle when you are on it. Once you are sure that everything is in the right place, you can proceed to step onto the inversion table.

• Step Onto the Inversion Table

Once the ankle supports are securely around your legs you can lower the spring pin into the nearest selector hole to lock the ankle supports in place. Lie firmly on the backrest and make sure you are comfortable.  You can then put the backrest in motion by simply raising an arm. You are about to begin your journey. So, relax and enjoy it!

Conclusion

Making use of an inversion table is a cheap and effective way of treating lower back pain. If you are planning to obtain one, do so quickly and remember all the steps involved in how to use an inversion table for lower back pain. You will be glad you did.

Spinal decompression and inversion tables are the two major techniques that can be used to cure you of back spasms and spinal issues. In other words, if you have any problem relating to your spine, your healthcare professional is most likely going to recommend that you take either of these treatments.

Hence, there is a need to know about these treatments.

In this article, we are going to discuss spinal decompression vs inversion table therapy and what they mean. We will also talk about the functions they perform, how they work, the benefits inherent in each type of treatment, the side effects and much more.

Furthermore, we will weigh them against each other. Therefore, if you are experiencing back pain and you’re suspecting you might need to go for either of these treatments, here is an opportunity for you to learn about them. Keep reading.

Anatomy of the spine

The human spine is made of up of a column of several short bones known as the vertebrae. There are 33 vertebrae in all. Among these vertebrae, the 24 in the upper part of the spine are flexible and allow movement while the lower 9 are fused (stiff and immobile).

Each vertebra is separated from the next by a thin layer of a ligament known as the intervertebral disc. These discs serve as shock-absorbers between two successive vertebrae, preventing them from coming in contact with each other. Due to a number of reasons, one of which is age, there could be changes to the pressure level in the spine.

These changes, in turn, can cause discs to get deformed. The deformity can take many forms. It could be in the form of the discs losing their flexibility, or reducing in thickness. The discs can even become slightly displaced from their natural position. When this happens, the individual begins to feel discomfort and general back pain and spasms.

However, discs cannot repair themselves easily because the blood supply to them is limited. Therefore, it might become necessary to resort to artificial therapy to rectify the anomaly. This is where spinal decompression vs inversion table comes into the picture.

What is spinal decompression? 

Spinal decompression is a therapy aimed at relieving you of back/spine problem. The therapy is made up of a series of sessions designed to reduce the pressure that has built up in your soft disc cushions (in the intervertebral discs). Spinal decompression is carried out on a decompression table by a licensed professional known as a chiropractor.

A chiropractor is a trained expert in matters involving the spine and you must be sure that the chiropractor whose services you will be engaging is registered and licensed to carry out the treatment. This is necessary because spinal decompression is a calculated therapy that requires a high degree of expertise. Also, accuracy is important in order for the therapy to be effective.

There are two forms of spinal decompression treatments, namely nonsurgical decompression and surgical decompression. The approach to employ will depend on the extent of your spinal problem as determined by the chiropractor.

Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression Therapy

Nonsurgical decompression involves the application of a kind of traction. A decompression table is connected to a computer which has been programmed using a series of meticulous calculations. The programmed computer controls the movement of the decompression table.

Hence, both of these gadgets make up the traction system. The traction system works by pulling the segments of your spine apart. You do not have to fear because the process is not a painful one. In fact, you will be very relaxed during the entire process.

This form of treatment is quite effective, with a nearly 80% success rate reported among patients who went all the way to complete the therapy. In addition, it is quite inexpensive compared to the surgical decompression method. It is estimated to cost anything between $100 to $200 per session. This means you will spend no more than $5,000 for a 25-session therapy.

Surgical Decompression

Surgical decompression is done in a hospital. If your condition is very severe, non-surgical spinal decompression may not work effectively and your healthcare provider or chiropractor may decide that surgical spinal decompression is more appropriate. Right now, there are no less than five different types of decompression surgeries. They all focus on the removal of parts of the discs, vertebrae or connective tissues.

Surgical decompression techniques are quite intensive. Also, they are financially demanding and surgeries costing more than $10,000 are not uncommon. These surgical operations can also have side effects which include blood clots, tissue damage and allergic reactions to the anesthetics used.

However, decompression surgeries are highly effective and have a higher success rate than nonsurgical decompression therapy. According to Cleveland Clinic, around 90% of the people who opt for this procedure reported significant relief to their spine.

What is an inversion table? 

An inversion table is one type of equipment that can be used to perform inversion therapy. It is a well-padded table that is attached to a metal frame in such a way that it can rotate around the hinges and tilt over a wide range of angles. It can even flip over so that it is aligned horizontally.

Inversion therapy itself is another method that is employed in the treatment of back pains and problems relating to the spine. It is different from spinal decompression therapy in a number of ways which we will examine later. If you are undergoing inversion therapy using an inversion table, you will be positioned in such a way that you are hanging down at an angle. The treatment is exactly true to its name, as involves you being inverted.

Inversion therapy is thought to work on the principle of reverse gravity. It is believed that when an individual is inverted in such a way that their feet are up and above their head, the effect of gravity on the spine can be reversed. It is known that gravity leads to the gradual compression of the spine and this could cause chronic back pain. Inversion therapy is quite popular among people experiencing pain at the lower part of their backbone.

It ideally uses your body weight to stretch your spine and depressurize your spine. If you are inverted, the load pressure on the lower part of the backbone is relieved. It is believed that inversion therapy can help to decompress the spine and provide relief to the patient. Hence, this method could be appropriate for you if you have lower back pain.

Also, it is not uncommon to see individuals who perform inversion therapy on their own. However, this is not safe. Inversion therapy is better carried out under supervision.

Benefits of Inversion Tables

There are several benefits that you can derive from using inversion tables. The benefits even go beyond relieving the pressure in the spine and pain in your back. Some of them are listed below

• Rehydrate Discs

Your discs are important shock absorbers. Therefore it is imperative that they are well moisturized. The pressure on the lower spine as a result of the weight of the upper part of the spine on it will cause the spine to become decompressed, which will, in turn, reduce the space in the discs.

This will force the fluid in this space to escape to neighboring tissues. The result is that you will experience reduced flexibility, and the shock-absorbing abilities of the affected vertebrae will be greatly inhibited.

However, when your body is inverted, the lower spine is free from the load and the pressure is reduced. This will allow fluid to flow back into the space created, thereby increasing the nutrients in the discs and improving their shock-absorbing abilities.

• Correct Misaligned Vertebrae

The pain you experience in your back could be due to some discs that have slipped slightly out of their natural position. A little misalignment of the bones in the body is enough to cause a great deal of pain for you.

Your day-to-day behaviors and activities, for example, the way you sit, could play a huge role in building up stress in your spine.

It is usually difficult for the vertebrae of the column to readjust themselves once they come out of place. However, using an inversion table tilted at an angle of about 60° can go a long way in readjusting the vertebrae. A little stretching and easing of the pressure on the vertebrae, which an inversion table allows you to do, can correct the anomaly.

• Helps to relax your Tense muscles

Your muscles will be slightly stretched when you make use of an inversion table. This leads to an increase in circulation which will, in turn, help to reduce tension.

• Alleviate Stress

As said earlier, inversion therapy will not only help to relieve your back pain, it can also help do a number of other things. One of these is that it can help ease your stress. When inverted, you are made to feel relaxed.

• Enhance Fitness

Inversion tables will help build up your fitness levels. Inverting can help you strengthen your core. The muscles that make up your core are essential in supporting your upper body. Hence, it invariably helps to build your fitness.

Risks Associated with Inversion Therapy

Although a number of people have reportedly achieved success using this method, there is very little scientific evidence to back up the efficacy of the method and a lot of medical experts are skeptical about it. They have raised a few points which suggest that inversion tables are not ideal for relieving spinal pains. In fact, the procedure is known to carry some risks, which include:

• During an inversion therapy session, there is a surge in blood pressure. The pressure on the eyes (glaucoma) also increases when you’re turned upside down. As a result of this, the inversion table is very dangerous, especially for people suffering from glaucoma, high blood pressure and heart-related diseases.
• It is not safe to hang down for too long as it can cause blood to pool to the head. This can lead to a coma or even death. You should not stay inverted for too long at a time. Ideally, a session should not last for more than 30 minutes.
• Furthermore, if you’re not careful when strapping yourself to the table, it can be dangerous because you can fall off the table and hit your head against a hard object. Hence you need to be careful and meticulous.

How to Use Inversion Tables

• Find a fairly large space to put your inversion table

Ensure you position your inversion table in a place that is spacious. It is necessary for space to be around the table as a matter of safety precaution because this will eliminate any potential danger that may result from you hitting any obstacle when using the table.

• Set the table to your height

The height of all inversion tables is adjustable in order to provide the specific height requirement of every individual. There is an adjustment knob that you can use for this purpose. Use the adjustment knob to regulate the height of the table so that it suits your taste. Ensure that you tighten the knob when you’re done with the height adjustment.

• Strap yourself securely

Once you’ve set the table to your height, climb onto it and strap yourself properly and securely to avoid an accident. Lay your back on the table and allow it to recline so that you’re looking at the ceiling. Remain in this position for some time.

• Incline the table

It is important to do things a step at a time. Begin your foray into inversion by inclining the table gently at low degrees of inclination – about 10° is good enough for a start. Be careful not to incline the table at a steep angle because it can cause dizziness and headache for you if you’re a rookie. Ask someone to supervise you when you make use of it.

• Increase usage with time

Improve on the tilt angle and the time spent for each session. Also, partake in inversion therapy sessions more often. You can invert as many times a day as you want.

Similarities between decompression and inversion tables

• Both are methods are used to treat pain in the spine.

Differences between decompression and inversion tables

• Decompression therapy requires a certified professional (chiropractor) to carry out the therapy but this is not necessary for inversion tables.
• Decompression therapy can focus specifically on the affected disc/vertebrae but an inversion table has a rather general treatment which broadly covers the entire spine.
• An inversion table provides short-term relief but decompression therapy provides relief for a much longer period. Evasive decompression methods are more or less permanent.

Back pain is usually treated with pain relievers and other medications. But these treatments may cause side effects or may not be effective. Some back pain sufferers undergo expensive surgeries.

Luckily, there is a kind of physical therapy that safely and effectively relieves back pain and other muscle stress – inversion therapy.

Inversion therapy means hanging the patient upside down or at inverted angle. It is a way of decompressing the spine and a form of spinal traction.

It is effective in eliminating the pain, but the relief only lasts for short period of time and does not treat the underlying cause of back pain.

Other than back pain, inversion therapy helps in the relief of pain in other body parts such as joints and the lymph system. It also improves circulation, decongests the organs, maintains height, and more.

Although anyone can do it, health professionals warn people with high blood pressure, glaucoma, and heart disease that inversion therapy is risky for them.

You can do inversion therapy at home anytime you want, but you need an inversion table. If you are going to buy your own, make sure that the inversion table you buy is made of high quality materials, is comfortable, secures you in place, and prevents injuries or accidents.

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B008054PFI” locale=”US” tag=”HPD”]Teeter Inversion Table[/easyazon_link] is a good choice. Here are its features and the pros and cons that you need to know.

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B008054PFI” locale=”US” src=”http://proinversiontherapy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/51y42Ld8gLL.jpg” tag=”HPD” width=”361″]

Features

The Teeter Inversion Table is an FDA cleared class 1 medical device designed specifically to stretch the muscles supporting the spine, decompress the spine, and lessen back pain, muscle spasms, spinal stenosis, and more.

The Teeter Inversion Table is also Underwriter Laboratories (UL) certified for rotation control, ease of assembly, and endurance.

To ensure safety, secure the entire body while being inverted. The Teeter Inversion Table is made of high end materials. It has patented security features such as cam locks, auto locking hinges, pivot bearings, and steel parts. It is well engineered and backed up by a five-year full warranty.

The Teeter Inversion Table provides comfort thanks to the following features: the EZ Reach Ankle System with extended handle and triple lock security, the ankle Comfort Dial that can be adjusted depending on foot size, and the Ergo Embrace Supports that surround the ankles to even out weight. All these parts work together to comfortably secure the feet.

The Teeter Inversion Table allows you to stretch more. It has a very long grip surface, traction handles, and grip and stretch handholds built into the bed and frame.

Another important feature of Teeter Inversion Table is the Comfortrak Bed, which is contoured with smooth surfaces that help the body to stretch more and relieve more back pain. It has acupressure nodes as well with different intensities of pressure point relief.

The Lumbar Bridge and Neck Arch is ergonomically designed to support the lower back and neck, allowing for increased decompression benefits.

When not in use, the Teeter Inversion Table can be folded for easy storage.

The Teeter Inversion Table is preset at three angles: 20, 40, and 60 degrees. It is easy to control and adjust. Plus, it comes with secure lockout in 360 degrees to allow exercise and stretching.

Pros and Cons

The Teeter Inversion Table is one of the bestselling inversion tables on the market today. It has received many positive reviews and very few negative reviews from users.

Pros

• UL and FDA class 1 certified
• Made with high quality materials
• Comfortable
• Easy to reach, extra-long handles
• Allows more stretch
• Contoured bed
• Features acupressure notes and lumbar bridge and neck arch
• Easy grip handles
• Allows inverted exercises
• Easy to assembly
• Balanced precision
• Relieves pain
• Space saver

Cons

• Does not fold flat

Summary

Back pain relief will never be the same again thanks to the Teeter Inversion Table. It provides ultimate relief to back pain, plus it has other benefits such as giving you the ability to exercise, improve flexibility, enhance muscle strength, and more. This is made possible by its high end materials and parts that secure the feet, ankles, and body.

Unlike other inversion tables, the Teeter Inversion Table has contoured a bed and frame. It is ergonomic for more comfort. The bed also comes with acupressure nodes which give intensity pressure point relief for muscles.

Before beginning inversion therapy, make sure that you do not have hypertension, glaucoma, or heart disease as it can be risky.

Also, use only an inversion therapy table that passes standards and is made of high quality materials to ensure safety and prevent accidents. It should be comfortable enough for you to relax while being inverted.

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B008054PFI” locale=”US” tag=”HPD”]Teeter Inversion Table[/easyazon_link] has all the qualities necessary to be considered a good inversion table.

Inversion therapy is an interesting, natural way to relieve back pain and other back pressures. It makes use of an inversion table, which reverses the negative effects of gravity. How does inversion therapy works?

Inversion therapy removes gravitational pressure from the nerve roots and disks in the spine and creates space between the vertebrae. Although it relieves back pain, the relief is only temporary.

This therapy is not recommended for people with heart disease, glaucoma, or high blood pressure.

Since the therapy involves hanging upside down with one’s head lower than one’s feet, rotated up to 180 degrees, it is important to use an inversion table that can support your body frame and weight. You would not want to fall while being inverted.

Your table should be built of high quality materials, with comfortable soft pads and more. It should be easy to adjust and include straps to secure your body.

You need a sturdy inversion table. But with all the inversion tables in stores today, how can you determine whether or not you are selecting a sturdy, high quality one?

You can find what you seek in the [easyazon_link identifier=”B000VSKAI8″ locale=”US” tag=”HPD”]Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table[/easyazon_link]. What makes the Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table stand out from other models?

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B000VSKAI8″ locale=”US” src=”http://proinversiontherapy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/51KLIYwBlLL.jpg” tag=”HPD” width=”479″]

Features

The Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table is made of foam, steel, and PVC. Its tubular steel frame measures 26 x 65 x 49 inches and supports up to 350 pounds. No worries about falling off or not adjusting the frame because of weight.

It effectively decreases back pain and helps blood circulation. It is strong and will not fail you. It can rotate up to 180 degrees, but moves gradually so you can get acquainted with the feeling.

It has tough rubber nonskid floor stabilizers to keep securely in place on the ground. This also secures the user and prevents him or her from falling off.

Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table has ergonomically molded ankle cushions. It provides comfortable inversion.

Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table can be easily folded and stored.

It has a scratch resistant powder coated finish that makes it look nice and sturdy.

The backrest is padded with memory foam vinyl. It is comfortable not only for the back, but also for the head.

To protect the user from falling off and for easy adjusting of the inversion, the Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table is constructed with an extra-long safety handle. It helps you return to the upright position safely.

Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table comes with one year warranty.

Pros and cons

Just like any other product, the Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table has cons. But the number of pros is notably higher.

Pros

• Sturdy
• Looks new even after years of use
• Easy to use
• Safe
• Easy storage
• Does not skid on floor
• Comfortable
• Easy to assemble
• Well-constructed

Cons

• Poor packaging

Summary

For people who struggle with back pain, inversion therapy is an answered prayer. It provides relief from back pain and other muscle strain. Unlike medications, it does not have any side effects.

However, inversion therapy can be risky for people with high blood pressure, glaucoma, or heart disease.

When a person plans to undergo inversion therapy, he or she needs a sturdy inversion table that does not easily break and that supports the entire body frame and weight. The Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table meets these requirements. It is one of the bestselling and top rated inversion tables available today.

The Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table is built with foam, steel, and PVC and its tubular steel frame is sturdy, measuring 26 x 65 x 49 inches. You do not have to worry about your body weight because it can hold up to 350 pounds.

It has a rubber nonskid floor stabilizer to keep it in place and help you avoid injury. It can also invert you up to 180 degrees, which is a good starting point for beginners.

It is also important for an inversion table to be comfortable. The Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table has molded ankle cushions which provide comfort while you are being inverted.

Plus, it has an extra-long handle to help you get back to the upright position.

The Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table can be easily folded and stored when not in use. As the users say, this inversion table model is well constructed, easy to assemble, sturdy, reliable, and scratch resistant.

Therefore, it effectively relieves back pain. It is a great addition to your equipment collection.

Although one user say it has poor packaging, [easyazon_link identifier=”B000VSKAI8″ locale=”US” tag=”HPD”]Ironman Fitness Gravity Inversion Table[/easyazon_link] has a sturdy overall construction for more effective and secure inversion therapy.

Many people around the world suffer from back pain and other muscle stress caused by fatigue, scoliosis, and other health problems. Most of the time, people relieve their pain by taking medications, which unfortunately can cause adverse side effects. In the worst cases, back pain is treated with surgery.

If you have back pain, will you take pain killers or undergo surgery? Is there any other treatment for back pain? In fact, there is: inversion therapy.

This article discusses inversion therapy, inversion tables, and includes an inversion table buying guide, inversion table reviews, and more.

First thing’s first. What is inversion therapy? How is it done? Is it safe for everyone?

What is inversion therapy?

Inversion therapy meant to relieve suffering from back pain and other muscle stress. The patient hangs upside down, head down and feet up, to reduce the gravitational pressure on the nerves and disks of the spine and to increase the space between the vertebrae.

Inversion therapy is a kind of physical therapy which stretches the spine to reduce back pain. It can also help improve the nervous system, defy the aging process, reduce mental stress, strengthen the immune system, detox internal organs, and more.

However, evaluations find that inversion therapy is not effective for providing long term relief. It is very helpful, though, for providing temporary relief to people who undergo a comprehensive treatment program for lower back pain.

Is inversion therapy safe?

Inversion therapy causes slowed heartbeat, increased blood pressure, and increased pressure within the eyeballs. Health professionals do not recommend it for people with glaucoma, high blood pressure, or heart disease. It can also cause dizziness for beginners.

What is an inversion table?

In inversion therapy, an inversion table is used. It is not a typical table used for dining. It is a medical apparatus made of sturdy materials. It hangs the patient upside down. It can be adjusted up to 180 to 360 degrees.

Inversion table buying guides

Inversion tables are used by professional athletes and people with back pain. Since it hangs the patient upside down, it needs to be sturdy enough to support the body weight and frame.

Inversion tables that are poorly made or have low quality materials are prone to breakage and can cause injuries.

Are you planning to buy your own inversion table? Before you do so, here are some important things to consider:

Materials

The most important thing to check in an inversion table is the material. High quality materials often used include heavy gauge steel tubing, carbon steel, and metal.

You do not want to buy inversion tables made of materials lower quality than high carbon steel.

Beware of making your purchase at Walmart because inversion tables sold there are usually made of low quality plastic. That is why it is cheaper there compared to other stores. It can be a health hazard and worsen your condition.

Frame

Inversion table frames come in two types – static, like those found in gyms, and foldable, which is easy to set up and store. Usually, the frames have a minimum and maximum weight and height.  A good inversion table should accommodate different body frames and height.

Back padding

To ensure comfort while being help upside down, back padding and other pads for different body parts should be built into the inversion table. Back padding can be thick or thin, but the thick ones are more comfortable.

Some back paddings have a notch on top to let you rest your face down or up. Some are removable, which makes it convenient to exercise while in an inverted position.

Adjustable clamps

The adjustable clamps accommodate different sizes of feet. Their purpose is to secure the ankle.

Motor

Most economy inversion tables are adjusted by the user. He or she rotates the table manually. On the other hand, more expensive, premium inversion tables can be adjusted with just the flick of a switch.

Adjustable inversion degree

As a beginner, you do not want to put yourself upside down at a full 360 degrees. It might cause dizziness. You should start with 30 degrees and rotate gradually until you get used to the therapy.

Inversion should be practiced gradually. An inversion table with controllable inversion degree allows you to invert at any acceptable degree.

Inversion table reviews

There are many inversion tables on the market today. But are all of them safe and effective? To learn more details about a particular inversion table, read the user feedback.