Inversion tables are a type of gravity inversion therapy that is used to relieve pressure from each vertebra in your spine, caused by gravity. Inversion tables are also thought to help bring oxygenated blood to the brain, as they reverse the blood flow of your body temporarily. On an inversion table, you are strapped to a padded table that then rotates you until you are completely upside down. This can cause stress and pain to your ankles if done incorrectly. Consult your doctor if you suffer from high blood pressure or heart disease, as inversions may be contraindicated for your specific condition.
Strap on Tightly
One of the major causes for ankle pain using an inversion table is having the straps be too loose, which makes the weight of your body pull on the loose straps, causing your skin to stretch and your ankles to ache. Do not try to have someone help you fix the straps while you are inverted, as this may further hurt your ankles or you may even lose hold and fall, which could hurt your neck and spine, depending on how you land. Instead, come out of your inversion and release your straps entirely. Readjust your feet to a comfortable position and strap them tightly so that there is no give and you feel secure to go back into your inversion.
Straps Too Tight
You may be experiencing pain in your ankles when using your inversion table if the straps are too tight and they are cutting off your circulation. Since you receive much less blood flow to your feet when you are inverted, it is important to allow the little blood flow that does reach your ankles to flow, or it can cause discomfort. Come out of your inversion and loosen your straps a little, but not too much where they would be too loose, as this will also cause you ankle pain.
Ankle Pain After Inversion
If you are experiencing ankle pain after you have used your inversion table, rest your feet above your heart by lying down flat on your back and placing pillows under your ankles. This will take pressure off your feet to help reduce any swelling.
Ice
If your inflammation persists after placing your feet above the level of your heart, take an ice pack and place it directly on your ankles. You can find ice packs designed to strap on to different parts of your body at your local pharmacy. This useful as you can place one on either ankle without having to hold it in place.
