An inversion table looks more like a lounge chair and is used for inversion therapy in clinics and yoga centers. It’s used to release tension, stretch the spine and relax muscles and joints. Ideally, this table can help release pressure on your back and spine and eases the force of gravity on your spine disks and nerves. You can use these tables to relieve:
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- Tense muscles or muscle spasms
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- Back pain
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- Sciatica pain
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- Compressed spinal disks
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- Kidney stones
Can you sleep on an inversion table?
You can sleep on an inversion table and then tip it so you can lean back at an angle (Sleeping upside down is not safe). Inversion therapy, also called spinal traction, should be done in short spans per day because it can be unsafe when done for long periods. You hang in position just for a few minutes.
If sleeping on the inversion table feels uncomfortable, you might be endangering your health and could even cause death. Therefore, you should be careful and follow instructions. Here are tips on how to use an inversion table:
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- On the inversion table, lie back and strap yourself steady.
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- Make sure the belts are closed tightly and secured.
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- Avoid leaning completely backward but use the advisable adjustment according to your age and height.
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- Always make sure you have someone around to watch you in case of an emergency or if you are unable to get out of the table.
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- When done with your therapy, you should slowly move up and untie yourself or have someone to help you out. Avoid moving upwards quickly to avoid hurting your joints and your back.
Advantages of Inversion Table
Inversion therapy has many benefits for your body and mind.
Improves Good Posture
Relaxing on an inversion table improves your body structure by stretching your spine and backbone to their natural posture.
Improves Flexibility
Practicing yoga with an inversion table improves your hips, back, and core flexibility.
Reduces Stress
Being on an inversion table immediately relaxes your mind and body by simply hanging upside down with your eyes closed. It offers you the time to meditate and loosen up.
Spinal Health
Inversion tables are good for herniated discs and helps the spinal disc to release pressure which mostly is caused by bending, sitting in wrong positions, and running.
Reduces Back Pain
People with back pain are advised to use an inversion table for eight weeks at a 60 degrees position to relieve backaches.
Smooth skin
Inversion therapy promotes smooth skin with fewer wrinkles by increasing blood circulation and helping the skin to tighten up.
Comfort
Lying and sleeping in an inversion can be very comfortable and relaxing to the muscles and back.
Kidney stones
Inversion therapy helps with the pain that comes with kidney stones. The procedure is done in hospitals or clinics. Ideally, inversion therapy is often used with other treatments such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL).
Bottom line
When choosing an inversion table, you should consider the safety of the table, add-ons, its ease in assembling it, storage, availability of belts and straps and easiness of usage. Before using an inversion table, make sure you talk and consult a professional.
