Approximately one-fourth of U.S. adults have back pain at least once in any given three-month period, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Some back pain sufferers use inversion therapy in an effort to relieve discomfort. Inversion therapy essentially means you hang upside down. While reversing gravity may provide temporarily relief from back pain, it probably won't have a long-lasting effect.
Considerations
Inversion therapy theoretically relieves the nerve roots and spinal discs from the constant pressure of gravity while increasing the space between the series of small bones or vertebrae that form the backbone. Inversion tables can involve full-body, head-first suspension from a bar in a stabilizing frame. Some tables gradually tilt the body into an upside-down position. Others are equipped with a sliding backrest and a locking device, which allow you to perform stretching and exercise movements while upside down.
Claims
Reducing back pain is just one of many purported benefits of inversion therapy. Proponents say hanging upside down can improve posture and flexibility, prevent loss of height, stimulate blood flow to the brain, treat varicose veins and even return abdominal organs to their proper position. None of these claims are based on scientific evidence, cautions Harvard Health Publications. Some inversion therapy enthusiasts say hanging upside down is an excellent way to stretch muscles, reduce muscle spasms, alleviate stress and enhance circulation.
Effects
Inversion therapy may be beneficial for at least some people with back discomfort. Hanging upside down may provide short-term relief from lower back pain caused by spinal disk compression, according to Mayo Clinic. Spinal cord compression can be caused by bone, blood, a ruptured or herniated disk and possibly tumors. Some physical therapists may integrate short-term inversion table therapy into a treatment program to ease back pain.
Precautions
The head-down position may pose risks for people with high blood pressure, heart disease or glaucoma. Staying in an inverted position for more than a few minutes can slow your heart rate and increase your blood pressure, explains Mayo Clinic. Check with your healthcare provider before using an inversion table.
References
- Mayo Clinic; Randy A. Shelerud, M.D.: Does inversion therapy relieve back pain?; June 20, 2009
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases; Back Pain; July, 2010
- Spine Universe; Susan Spinasanta; Back Pain; April 28, 2010
- Harvard Medical School.;Celeste Robb-Nicholson, M.D.;Do Inversion Tables Work?; November 1, 2009
- Merck Manuals; Michael Rubin, MD; Spinal Cord: August 2007
- Merriam Webster: Vertebra
