LifeGear inversion tables are no longer sold directly by the company, but some third-party retailers still sell them online as of March 2011. Like other inversion tables, LifeGear tables help to relieve back pain through spinal decompression when you use them regularly. To achieve the best results as safely as possible, carefully following the instructions on how to use the LifeGear inversion table.
Preparation
Before using the LifeGear inversion table, adjust the height of the ankle clamp so it is set to your height or roughly an inch taller. Set the backrest of the table to an angle of inversion you are comfortable with by tightening the tether strap underneath the table. Lie against the table when it is locked, secure your ankles in place with the ankle clamp and raise your hands slowly over your head to invert yourself.
Exercises
When you are inverted, promote circulation and back pain relief by slowly oscillating between the inverted and upright positions. Do this by raising and lowering your arms, respectively. Additionally, when inverted, perform back arches and turn your body from side to side to further stretch your muscles. This stretching helps move oxygenated blood and lymphatic fluid through your body to help heal damaged tissue, according to Sports Injury Clinic.
Inversion Frequency
Only use the LifeGear inversion table for 30 seconds to a couple of minutes at a time at first. It may take time for your body to become accustomed to the feeling of inversion. As you become comfortable on the LifeGear table, invert your body more or spend a longer time in the inverted state to increase your benefits. However, if you ever feel uncomfortable or lightheaded, return to the horizontal position and rest until you feel normal again.
Safety
Mayo Clinic rehabilitation specialist Randy A. Shelerud, M.D. states that using any inversion table presents a significant danger to patients with high blood pressure or other cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, pregnant women or those with certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma or detached retina, should not use any inversion table. Check with your physician first to ensure that this type of physical therapy is safe for your health.
References
- "Therapeutic Modalities: The Art and the Science"; Kenneth L. Knight and David O. Draper; 2008
- Sports Injury Clinic: Inversion Therapy
- Spine Universe; Turning Back Pain and Sciatica Upside Down; Susan Spinasanta
- Mayo Clinic; Inversion Therapy--Can It Relieve Back Pain?; Randy A. Shelerud, M.D.
- Evolution Health: F5000 and F6000 Inversion Table Owner's Manual
- Stamina Products: Therapy Inversion System Owner's Manual
