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FAQs

Why does my back hurt more after using an inversion table? ›

It can aggravate your pain

With an inversion table or any other inversion therapy, you can't calculate the specific force for the right segment. Due to this reason, people tend to overdo it. It the muscles around your spine stretch too much, it may cause serious injuries.

Inversion tables can cause a buildup of pressure in the eyes, head, and ears. Therefore, those with hypertension, glaucoma, heart disease, and detached retinas should avoid inversion therapy. In addition, people with osteoporosis, fractures, and joint problems should avoid using inversion tables.

Limit your inversion table sessions to 5 minutes twice a day. Tip up slowly. After you've done it, come back up slowly to an upright position. If you jerk up too quickly, you may trigger muscle spasms or disk pain in your back.

Benefits of hanging upside down

This may stretch out the spine and decrease pressure on the discs and nerve roots. It may also increase the space between the vertebrae. Potential benefits of hanging upside down during inversion therapy include: short-term relief from back pain, sciatica, and scoliosis.

Although inversion therapy is non-invasive, it is not safe for everyone. The practice may increase blood pressure and pressure in the head. People affected by the following conditions should avoid inversion therapy or talk to a healthcare professional first: High blood pressure.

You should begin with 1-2 minutes per session and advance only as you feel comfortable. Keep in mind that frequency (inverting more often) is more important than duration (inverting for longer periods of time). Over time, work up to 3-5 minutes or as long as it takes for your muscles to relax and release.

Gravity boots

These are also known as inversion boots. They are a type of footwear designed to allow the user to hang upside down or at an inverted angle. They are often used as an alternative to inversion tables, as they offer a similar spine decompression and relief to the lower back.

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.

Wear athletic shoes with a good grip; never use an inversion table in bare feet.

Do inversion tables increase risk of stroke? ›

Health professionals associate certain risks with inversion therapy, especially for people with certain conditions. Risks include: Increased blood pressure: Doctors associate various risks with high blood pressure, including strokes and heart attacks.

Over time, experts recommend gradually working your way up to the “magic angle” of 60 degrees, parallel with the rear legs of the frame. According to studies (details below), this angle is where the pressure in your discs approaches zero, offering optimal decompression.

Spending a few minutes upside down may help adjust lymphatic flow. Improving blood circulation: Hanging upside down may help blood flow more easily to the upper section of your body. Kidney stones: Inversion therapy may help relieve discomfort caused by kidney stones.

A herniated disc is not something that should be treated. Inverting on an inversion table can help to relieve pressure from your discs by decompressing them. The discs will naturally heal if they are freed from the pressure. The disc can be irritated by the slight increase in space between the vertebrae.

Though studies found mixed results, research suggests that three minutes at a 60-degree tilt is the sweet spot for inversion therapy, Dr. Bodepudi notes. Don't expect instant results: Some people find quick short-term relief from pain.

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.

Many people with low back pain and sciatica find that inversion therapy performed on an inversion table provides symptom relief.