Are Inversion Tables Good for Low Back Pain?
One of the most common home therapies for low back pain is the inversion table. Patients frequently ask if inversion therapy is something I recommend. My answer is usually, “maybe,” because inversion therapy is not appropriate for everyone.
In many cases, inversion tables should be viewed more like exercise equipment than a medical treatment device. While they may help some people stretch the back and relieve mild stiffness, they can also aggravate certain conditions.
Who Should Avoid Inversion Tables?
Inversion therapy may not be safe for people with certain health conditions. You should avoid inversion tables if you have:
- High blood pressure or heart disease
- A history of stroke or strong family history of stroke
- Glaucoma or other serious eye conditions
- Osteoporosis or osteopenia
- Hernias
- Vertigo, dizziness, or inner ear disorders
- Pregnancy
- Severe low back pain or muscle spasms
- Disc herniation with radiating leg pain
- Weak or unstable ankles, knees, or hips
If you have any of these conditions, inversion therapy may increase risks or worsen symptoms.
Benefits of Inversion Therapy
For healthy individuals without the conditions listed above, inversion tables may help:
- Stretch tight back muscles
- Relieve mild low back stiffness
- Reduce tension from prolonged sitting or activity
- Improve flexibility and mobility
However, inversion should be used carefully and in moderation.
How to Safely Use an Inversion Table
The angle and duration of inversion should depend on your age, weight, flexibility, and overall health.
In general:
- The table should not exceed a 70-degree angle in healthy individuals
- People who are overweight, deconditioned, or older should use smaller angles
- Sessions should remain short to avoid unnecessary strain
Using too much inversion too quickly may aggravate symptoms instead of helping them.
Inversion Tables vs. Spinal Decompression Therapy
Inversion tables were originally designed to mimic spinal traction or spinal decompression therapy. However, professional spinal decompression treatment is far more controlled and targeted.
Spinal decompression uses specialized equipment to gently stretch the spine and reduce pressure on discs and nerves. This treatment may help conditions such as:
- Herniated discs
- Sciatica and radiating leg pain
- Spinal stenosis
- Chronic low back pain
- Neck pain and cervical radiculopathy
In addition, spinal decompression may help:
- Improve joint mobility
- Reduce scar tissue and adhesions
- Restore ligament flexibility
- Reduce disc pressure
- Support healing and stabilization
Unlike inversion tables, spinal decompression can also be safely used on the neck for conditions involving cervical disc problems and nerve irritation.
When to Seek Professional Care
If you are experiencing severe low back pain, radiating pain, numbness, weakness, or recurring back problems, it is important to determine the true cause of your symptoms before starting inversion therapy.
At Alta Mountain Chiropractic, Dr. Nathan Eldredge performs a thorough examination to determine which treatments are safest and most effective for your condition.
If you are interested in spinal decompression therapy for back pain, neck pain, sciatica, or disc injuries, contact our office at (801) 523-2582 to schedule an appointment or click here to schedule online. In many cases, spinal decompression therapy is covered by most major insurance plans.
