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Inversion
table therapy has a therapeutic
effect
that is comparable to physical therapy mechanical vertebral
distraction on a traction table. The
upside-down or inverted position uses gravity instead of
mechanical force. Inversion tables are orthopedically approved for
relieving pressure on the intervertebral disks which may help
relieve sciatica or radicular pain down the legs.
Companies selling inversion tables promote other benefits of
reversing gravity's effect on your body. These other claims
have not been substantiated. In the physical therapy
profession, mechanical traction is no longer used for general back
pain, as it has not been found to be a helpful treatment unless
the pain is discogenic (related to degenerative disc) or related
to pinched nerves as they exit the lumbar spine through vertebral
foramen.
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Click here for more information on the Apollo Inversion Table by
Kettler |
A claim that suggests inversion therapy relieves non-specific
lower back pain is not based on scientific evidence.
Unfortunately, there are many unethical advertisers of inversion
tables making "snake oil" claims that are not valid...
Some contraindications to inversion therapy
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Glaucoma
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High blood pressure (hypertension)
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Retinal detachment
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Pregnancy
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Recent stroke or transient ischemic attack
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Heart and circulatory disorders
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History of congestive heart failure
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Dizziness or fainting
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Osteoporosis, recent unhealed fractures or orthopedic surgeries,
artificial hip joints, etc.
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Traumatic brain injury
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Acute spinal injury
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Disoriented if upside down
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Chronic sinusitis
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Hiatal hernia
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Extreme obesity
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Use of anti-coagulants
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Conjunctivitis - (pink eye)
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Motion sickness or inner ear disorders
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History of space-occupying brain lesion
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Vulnerable areas of stress from recent surgery
This is not an exhaustive list, but these and any other medical
conditions that would limit normal physical activity may be
contraindications for inversion therapy. As always, you are
personally responsible for your own health. So, please use
good judgment and check with you doctor if you have any questions.
Click here for more information on the Apollo Inversion Table by
Kettler
