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Do Inversion Tables Work For Back Pain
There is no scientific evidence to support the use of inversion tables for the treatment of back pain. Inversion therapy, which involves hanging upside down or at an inverted angle, is sometimes advertised as a way to relieve back pain (or even help with facet syndrome) by decompressing the spine and joints. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims.
Inversion therapy may be a contributing factor to low back pain in some people. This type of therapy can also lead to serious injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, and strokes. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about the dangers of inversion tables after receiving reports of injuries associated with their use.
If you are considering using an inversion table for back pain relief, it is important to talk to your doctor first. Inversion tables are not appropriate for everyone, and they can be dangerous if not used properly.
Inversion Table Benefits For Back Pain
Inversion therapy is a form of physical therapy in which people are suspended upside down for brief periods of time. This type of therapy has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including back pain.
Inversion tables are devices that allow people to safely and easily invert themselves. These tables have become increasingly popular in recent years as many people look for natural ways to manage their pain.
There is some evidence to suggest that inversion therapy may be effective for treating low back pain. One study found that inverted groups had significantly lower levels of pain than those who did not invert. Another study found that inversion therapy may help to reduce the symptoms of sciatica, a condition that causes pain to radiate from the lower back down the legs.
Inversion therapy works by reversing the effects of gravity on the body. When you are upright, gravity pulls down your spine, which can lead to pain and other problems over time. When you invert yourself, gravity pulls your spine up, which takes the pressure off of the nerves and discs in your spine. This can provide relief from pain and help to improve your spinal health.
In addition to relieving pain, inversion therapy has also been shown to have other benefits. One study found that inverting may help to increase blood flow to the brain and improve brain function. Another study found that it may help to reduce anxiety and improve mood.
If you are interested in trying inversion therapy, it is important to speak with your doctor first. Inverting can be dangerous if you have high blood pressure or heart problems.
Risks and Side Effects of Inversion Tables
In general, inversion tables are safe for healthy people without any serious medical conditions. However, as with any type of exercise or physical activity, there are some risks and side effects associated with their use.
The most common side effect of inversion tables is increased blood pressure. This is because the gravity-based traction created by the inversion table causes more blood to flow into the head and neck area. In some cases, this can lead to a temporary increase in blood pressure.
However, there is no evidence to suggest that inversion tables cause any long-term increase in blood pressure. In fact, some studies have shown that inversion therapy can actually help lower blood pressure over time.
Other potential side effects of inversion tables include blurry vision, dizziness, and nausea. These symptoms are usually only temporary and will go away once you get used to the sensation of being upside down.
If you have any serious medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, you should consult your doctor before using an inversion table. In addition, pregnant women and contact lens wearers should avoid using inversion tables.
In general, inversion tables are safe for most people when used as directed. However, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before starting any new type of exercise or physical activity.
How To Use Inversion Table For Lower Back Pain
One of the most popular therapies for lower back pain is inversion therapy, which can be done with an inversion table. This type of therapy involves hanging upside down at different angles to stretch the spine and relieve pressure on the discs and nerves.
Inversion tables are adjustable, so you can hang at different angles to gradually increase the stretch. Most people start with a very gentle inversion of about 20 degrees and then increase the angle as they get used to it. You should never go beyond a 60-degree angle, as this can cause additional trauma to the spine.
Inversion therapy can be an effective way to relieve lower back pain, but it’s important to use the table correctly. Start slowly and carefully, and never force your body into a position that is uncomfortable. If you have any medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart disease, talk to your doctor before trying inversion therapy.
Can Inversion Table Cause Back Pain
Although inversion therapy can be effective in providing short-term relief from back pain, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) states that there is no evidence that it is an effective long-term treatment.
A 2014 study published in PLOS One found that people with low back pain who underwent inversion therapy had the same levels of pain as those who received sham treatments.
The NINDS also warns that inversion therapy can cause serious injuries, such as vertebral fractures, joint dislocations, and even spinal cord damage, so people with back pain should consult a doctor before trying this type of therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should not use an inversion table?
Pregnant women, people with high blood pressure, people with glaucoma, and people with a detached retina should not use an inversion table.
Can an inversion table hurt your back more?
An inversion table can cause more back pain if it is not used correctly. Make sure to follow the instructions on how to use the inversion table.
How often should I use my inversion table?
Most experts recommend using an inversion table for 3-5 minutes per day, although some people may need to use it for longer periods of time.
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Conclusion
While inversion therapy may provide some people with short-term pain relief, the evidence suggests that there are better quality research-supported and possibly safer treatments for back pain available. The good news is that many of the inversion products on the market today are very well made and provide a Similar effect as more expensive devices.
So, if you are considering inversion therapy for your back pain, you may want to consider a less expensive device to see if it provides the relief you are looking for. If not, consult with your doctor to discuss other options that may be a better fit for your needs.
Dave Lee is the founder of Spine Institute NY, a huge fan of inversion therapy, a researcher, and an author.
