The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of Inversion Tables

The Good.

There are many pros to using an inversion table. By inverting yourself upside down you can allow gravity to decompress, transiently the pressure placed on your nerves and discs that can over time become compressed. A word of caution though, when hanging upside down by your feet make sure you hang ‘em high and have adequate space so as not to hit your head. Also ensure that you are secured fast, because you want to make sure you can move every which way but loose, so as not to crash and hit your head. If you are having trouble with the curve of your back, 10-15 minutes of traction may be the ticket for you. Inversion can promote lymph circulation which can help detoxify the body. It can ease joint and disc pain as well and if we are being honest, there are times that pain can push us right over heartbreak ridge. When pain is a bigger issue and you are looking for more than transient relief, talk to your ASAP provider about a LAND procedure, a minimally invasive surgical approach to decompressing your spinal disc. With the right insurance it may not even cost you a fistful of dollars and may be appropriate to help remove you from pain’s line of fire.

The Bad.

While inversion has its place there are some downsides to its use. Inverting yourself tends to increase blood pressure, slow your heart rate, and increase pressure in your eyes significantly. If you have a heart condition, suffer from either hypertension or glaucoma you would be wise to consult your primary care physician before purchasing an inversion table or engaging in inversion. Inverting oneself can also increase risk of muscle strain and fainting. You do not want to flip up and down and turn yourself into a pale rider of the inversion table.

The Ugly.

Let’s be honest, when we are hanging upside down and the blood is rushing to our heads, we all probably look ugly, as if we are attempting to make an escape from Alcatraz. If you have been dealing with pain in the low back for some time it may be time to paint your wagon and do something about it. So, you have to ask yourself a question. Do you feel lucky? Well, do you? Give us a call at Advanced Spine and Pain.