INVERSION THERAPY
Inversion therapy is a method of treating back pain by diminishing the influence of gravity, reducing the compression of the vertebrae and discs and allowing the supporting muscles and ligaments of the spine to relax. Off-loading the spine can be achieved by using an inversion table or through Aquatic therapy.
This is typically performed on what’s called an inversion table. The table allows you to lie on your back relaxed, in an inverted position. This position eliminates some or all gravitational compression, depending upon how far back you position your body.
Inversion therapy is a safe and effective way to reduce the mechanical stress on your lower spine. Numerous clinical studies published in reputable medical journals have confirmed that inversion really does increase the separation between the discs of the spine, and separation of the facet joints which brings relief from back pain.
Other benefits of Inversion therapy or Aquatic therapy:
- Maintains your height. Regularly inverting will help you avoid the “shrinkage” others your age are showing because of the cumulative effect of gravity over a lifetime.
- Improves circulation. When you’re inverted, your body can circulate your blood aided by gravity rather than having to work against it. In addition, with inversion, gravity helps the lymphatic system clear faster, easing the aches and pains of stiff muscles.
- Relieves stress. A full-body stretch feels rejuvenating! And the inversion table makes that relaxation easier to attain than climbing on a jungle gym or taking a yoga class. Many people sleep better with regular inversion therapy.
- Heightens mental alertness. Any upside-down activity increases the supply of oxygen to the brain, which many authorities believe helps you maintain mental sharpness.
- Increases flexibility and range of motion. With inversion, your joints stay healthy and supple, so that you can easily remain as active as you were in your younger years.
- Improves posture. The stretch that comes with reversing the direction of gravity helps you sit, stand and move with more ease and grace.
Is Inversion Therapy Safe?
For many years, the biggest concern was that inversion therapy would increase the chance of stroke. However, according to Roger Teeter, one of the pioneers in this field, “In 25 years, I have never seen a case-published or unpublished-where inversion caused a stroke.”
Some users get concerned because their face gets red when they are inverted. But this is actually a good thing because it indicates that blood flow to the brain, eyes, skin and hair is increasing. Over time, you get used to how different it feels when you are inverted. If you are uncomfortable, simply invert at a lesser angle or for a shorter period of time until your body gets accustomed to inversion.
If you have high blood pressure, heart disease or an eye condition, or if you have had fusion surgery, you should check with your doctor before inverting. Keep in mind that extensive research shows that inversion therapy is as safe as most daily activities.
Directions for use of the Inversion table:
- Set your height on the inversion table.
- Set the angle (usually no greater than 30-40 degrees). Never completely vertical.
- Carefully step onto the footplates and tighten the pads around your ankles.
- Lean back and raise your arms slowly to displace your weight towards your head which will invert the table (some tables have breaks which will require release).
- Once inverted to desired angle relax your body for 5-15 minutes.
- Work your way up to 15 minutes sessions once or twice per day. Start with small time increments each day as tolerated.
Where to purchase:
- Kmart- $ 100.00
- Sam’s Club-$ 140.00
- Sport’s Authority- $ 175.00
- Relax the Back- $ 350-600.00
- Amazon. com – various prices and quality
“Please understand that sometimes what you pay for is what you get”
Do not use inversion products without your medical advisor’s approval. This is not a complete list, but intended only for your reference:
- Pregnancy
- Hiatal Hernia, Ventral Hernia, Glaucoma, Retinal Detachment, Pink Eye.
- High Blood Pressure, Hypertension, Stroke, TIA’s.
- Severe Spinal Injury, Cerebral Sclerosis, and Acutely Swollen Joints.
- Bone Weakness, Recent Unhealed Fractures, and surgically implanted Orthopedic Supports.
- Use of Anti-Coagulants (high doses of aspirin), Extreme Obesity
Contact Us
13710 Olive Boulevard (Primary Office)
Chesterfield, MO 63017
Telephone: 314-469-PAIN (7246)
Fax: 314-469-7251
Exchange: 314-441-6965 (for after-hour Emergencies Only)
Hours:
Monday thru Friday
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM