Inversion therapy refers to the therapeutic intervention that is performed by hanging upside down or tilting in an inverted position. Notable benefits are reduced back pain, increased blood circulation and stress management. To delve more on the benefits and risks, read on.
Inversion therapy is a therapeutic intervention, mostly practiced for treatment of back pain. Under this therapy, the patient hangs upside down or in an inverted position (against gravity). The degree of the inversion angle depends upon the approach for undergoing the therapy and the overall health condition of the patient. Inversion therapy benefits are mainly stressed on correcting the problems of the spinal column, which occur due to injury, dislocations and aging. The therapist may recommend suitable exercises for overcoming pain in the back.
Benefits
Inversion therapy for back pain is a popularly discussed topic. As per the proponents, it is effective in decompressing the spine and relaxing muscles and ligaments. Special equipment known as inversion tables and gravity boots are used for performing this therapy. The former allows inverting at variable angles, while the latter is meant for a direct upside down position. Hence, the benefits of inversion tables and gravity boots depend upon the approach for which you are using the equipment.
Some of its benefits include:
- Decompress Spine – When speaking about inversion therapy for a spine problem, it helps to decompress the spine and relieves pain by reducing pressure on the nerves and spinal discs.
- Correct Body Posture – Inversion therapy aids in reversing the process of aging in the spine. As it realigns the spinal column to its original form, it aids in maintaining body posture.
- Increase Flexibility – It is quite obvious that after decompression of the spine and relieving pain, the flexibility and body movement is increased to a certain extent.
- Promote Blood Circulation – Undergoing regular sessions of inversion therapy promotes blood circulation to the upper organs, thus increasing oxygen and nutrient supply to these body parts. This indirectly helps in quick healing of the inflamed and injured tissue.
- Improve Lymphatic System – It improves the lymphatic system and promotes better circulation of the essential nutrients to the body organs. This in turn helps in body detoxification and proper coordination of the body metabolic processes.
- Eliminate Constipation – Easy bowel movement and constipation relief is another huge benefit. As the body remains upside down, the pressure of a hard stool is decreased, allowing easy passage.
- Relieve Stress – The proponents of inversion therapy are of the opinion that it helps in proper stress management. However, ensure that you follow the therapist’s advice for a suitable position.
Risks
The therapeutic benefits of inversion therapy are controversial. To be more precise, this therapy is not applicable for patients who have back pain along with other medical conditions. Dangers of inversion therapy include blood infusion in the head portion. Considering this, people with high blood pressure, heart problems, glaucoma and eye diseases should seek advice from their concerned physician prior to indulging in this therapy. Also, pregnant women should refrain from this type of therapy, as it can cause certain complications, both for the mother and the baby.
On the concluding note, inversion therapy for sciatica and back pain is rarely considered as an effectual treatment method. Many people opine that this therapy does not provide long-term relief from back pain. Also, while undergoing any kind of therapy, safety is the first priority. Prior to implementing inversion therapy, always consult and seek advice from a professional therapist or physician about the suitable angle and the pros and cons of the therapy. Analyze the benefits and risks carefully and decide whether it is the right treatment option for you or not.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and does not in anyway attempt to replace the advice offered by a medical professional on the subject.
