The inversion table is a device which consists of a pivoting board which allows the body to be partially or totally tilted backwards, upside down. Designed on the principle of the inclined plane of Hippocrates, it is indicated for back pain, low back pain, herniated disc or inflammation of the sciatic nerve. Indeed, the fact of reversing the body allows to relieve, oneself, by stretching, the spine of the weight of the body and the tensions that this one can cause, in particular when it is in excess of weight. Freed from the sensation of gravity, the spine stretches and frees its intervertebral discs from compressions, the time to tilt for immediate relief which also affects the muscles, tendons and ligaments.

An inversion table is a paramedical accessory, equipped with a board connected to a metal frame, which allows you to perform a 180 ° rocking movement in complete safety, and to end up upside down, while being attached, the ankles being securely held thanks to a system of ankles covered with foam to retain the legs without injuring or causing injuries to the shins.

A footrest can be adjusted to suit the height of the user. Two handles, located on either side of the chair, also assist it in its tilting and its return to the standing position. It is possible to choose several tilt angles between 0 and 180 °.

The head-down position allows a reduction in the force of gravity, which eliminates the residual tension on the spine and the discs. The user experiences a feeling of overall relief from the muscles and ligaments supporting the spine.

When standing, the body and a fortiori the back, support the whole weight. The inversion table helps relieve muscle tension and some back pain.

The objective of the inversion table is to:

• promote blood return;
• accelerate the lymphatic process;
• activate blood circulation;
• reduce pressure on the intervertebral discs;
• reduce compression of the sciatic nerve;
• relieve back pain;
• reduce contractions in the lumbar region;
• soothe the joints;
• reduce pain located on the upper part of the spine, at the neck and a little lower;
• relieve stress generated in particular by pain;
• increase motor skills;
• increase the flow of oxygen to the brain;
• improve posture.

The inversion table is therefore indicated in the event of:

• low back pain;
• herniated disc ;
• inflammation of the sciatic nerve;
• lumbago;
• etc.

The inversion table can be used at home in total autonomy.

HOW TO USE

• stand up against the board;
• wedge their feet with the foam toe clips;
• once the feet are propped up, slowly perform a rearward pivoting movement of the table;
• once tilted, change position to work on different parts of the back;
• depending on the position adopted, there are many exercises to work on. For example, it is possible to rotate the bust and maintain the position, arch the back or, conversely, roll it up;
• also vary the angle of inclination to break the monotony of the exercise;
• use the pull-up bars on each side to pivot again in the opposite direction and return to its original position;
• just as with tilting back, return to its original position slowly.

Precautions for use

The main risk is linked to improper use of the inversion table:

• if you are overweight or tall, be sure to check the capabilities of the model before using it. All inversion tables specify a maximum weight and height beyond which the user runs a risk;
• do not fidget too much when you are upside down and do not move your feet so as not to risk falling;
• follow the assembly instructions carefully, most inversion tables are delivered as a kit for easy transport;
• carry out some solidity tests of the device before use;
• to feel safe when you are upside down, be sure to apply pressure on the self-locking hinges which ensure the locking of the table when inverting;
• use this table sparingly and do not extend the inverted position too much. It can indeed have an impact on blood pressure and heart rate.

Designed on the principle of the inclined plane of Hippocrates, this process has existed for more than 2000 years. Much progress has been made since to make the use of these inversion tables both comfortable and safe.

The criteria for choosing an inversion table include:

• the angle of inversion: it is recommended for beginners to opt for an inversion table equipped with a bar for locking the incline, to limit the maximum incline and to avoid any risk of tipping too much quickly head down. For more experienced users, it is possible to choose a model allowing the tilt to 180 ° not to be limited;
• comfort: prefer a comfortable board, even if its price is a little higher. Some models are equipped with padded ankle handles for maximum comfort or even air chambers conforming to the shape of the legs to feel gently accompanied throughout the session;
• size: some models are foldable and light, which can be an important criterion in terms of ease of storage;
• the maximum weight / size: some models accept a weight of up to 160 kg. Others can settle in height to adapt to users measuring 1,50 meters as well as users measuring 1,95 meters ;
• ease of cleaning.