What is Inversion Therapy?

Back pain can be largely attributed to the compression of the spine. An inversion table will allow you to widen the spaces between your spinal disks. How does it do this? It’s pretty simple – by eliminating the effect of gravity. Inversion tables are basically padded, pivoting beds to which you strap your feet and ankles, and once safely secured, you pivot the bed to the desired angle of inversion. The force of gravity and your own weight will be sufficient to stretch out the spine. Resulting benefits include improved circulation, flexibility and posture and relief from muscle tension and back pain.

Is Inversion Therapy Safe?

Inversion table therapy should be built slowly as little as one minute per session to start. This gradual process will  prevent injury. When used correctly, this form of therapy is safe, but you will still need to consult with your medical practitioner before you choose to make use of it.

There are cases in which inversion therapy can present a danger to your health. When you are inverted, your heart rate will begin to decrease and there will be a rise in blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, glaucoma or heart disease, you should not make use of this form of therapy. If you are pregnant, you should first consult with your doctor.  When beginning inversion therapy be sure to have someone standing by, in case assistance is required to get out of the table, or if health problems are experienced.

Are the Results of this Therapy Permanent?

This form of therapy can greatly alleviate back pain, but it is not necessarily permanent. In order to achieve permanent or long lasting results, patients will need to make use of a comprehensive treatment plan by combining inversion tables with other appropriate treatments.

Many people have found that they no longer experience debilitating back pain after a few weeks of therapy on inversion tables. It is important to remember, however, that individuals suffering from health related problems should always consult with their doctor before using alternative forms of therapy, or they might end up injuring themselves further as a result.

• Read our Inversion Table reviews
• Learn more about the medical benefits of Inversion Therapy at About.com
• Compare pricing on new and bestselling Inversion Tables

Priced between the Ironman 1000 and Ironman 4000, the 2000 model is an excellent mid-range option with a focus on comfort and stability.

Uncomfortable ankle braces are a common complaint of first timer inversion table users. During inversion, much of the body’s weight is supported by the ankles. The Ironman 2000 puts a premium on padded, easily adjustable, secure and comfortable ankle support.

The overall construction is sturdy and well-made and the table has an elegant, aesthetically pleasing look. The inversion transition is smooth and stable and the table has extra long safety handles for easy return to the upright position.

There’s no doubt that inversion therapy works — the act of hanging upside down can help relieve or reverse the effects of gravity on the spine, release tension in the lower back and relieve chronic back pain. It’s also recommend for preventive maintenance and overall well-being.

As with any inversion table, you need to plan where it will be used to allow the table to pivot fully. This unit measures 26 x 65 x 49 inches (W x H x D).

Assembly is straight-forward but relatively involved, taking 1-2 hours.

Ironman Gravity 2000 Product Details

• Sturdy, comfortable inversion table for reducing back stress and stimulating circulation
• Ergonomically molded 2″ soft vinyl covered foam ankle cushions
• Supports users up to 300 pounds and 6’6″ in height
• Durable tubular steel frame, tough nylon backrest
• Scratch resistant powder-coated finish
• Rubber non-skid floor stabilizers
• Folds for storage

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Buy the Ironman Gravity 2000 Inversion Table
• Compare to other popular Inversion Tables on Amazon
• Ironman Gravity Inversion Tables (ALL MODELS) currently on eBay

Ironman Gravity 4000 Inversion Table US $364.77 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Monday May-21-2012 18:27:45 PDT   | Watch this Item

Ironman IFT 4000 Infrared Gravity Fitness Inversion Therapy Table Back Pain US $492.83 Auction Ends: Monday May-21-2012 19:55:11 PDT   | Watch this Item

The EZ Up Inversion Rack is intended for use with the Teeter Hang Ups Gravity Boots

The rack installs at the top of standard door frames 28 to 36 inches wide, similar to doorway chinup bars. Unlike the easy-mount chinup bars, an inversion rack must be securely attached with brackets and screws to the outside of the door frame. It can be unlocked and removed from the door but the brackets are “permanent.” When in place the rack will not interfere with the normal function of the door.

Foam hand grips and a dual bar design make mounting and dismounting more comfortable. While inverted you can perform exercises core like crunches and full range situps. The bar can also be used for pullups when not inverted.

Unlike inversion tables that make it easy to pivot into an inverted position, a rack and gravity boots require effort and a strong core to get into position. This method is recommended only for those already in good shape. Weight capacity is 250 pounds.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• More on the Teeter Hang Ups EZ Up Inversion Rack
• Get the Teeter Hang Ups Gravity Boots
• Compare to Teeter Hangups Inversion Tables

The construction and stability of the Health Mark are among the best available, supporting up to 600 pounds, compared to the 300 pound limit seen on most inversion tables. Although there may not be a large market for users over 300 pounds the weight capacity says something about the engineering quality of both the frame and the pivot assembly.

There are 5 preset angles and 25 available height settings to accommodate users of up to 6 feet 6 inches tall. The table locks into place at the chosen angle as you lean backwards, without being concerned about balancing the machine.

Other features include easily accessible front and rear ankle brackets, a rolled thigh and knee support, a foam-padded back support and a crescent-shaped head/face rest.

The design accommodates both a face up or an inverted face down position. Each position and exercise is designed to release stress compression, fatigue and lower back pain, improve circulation, stimulate blood flow for increased mental awareness, and improve posture.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Click here for the Health Mark Pro Max Inversion Therapy Table
• Compare to all bestselling Inversion Tables on Amazon
• More Inversion Tables on eBay
  

Teeter Hang Ups EP-550 Inversion Therapy Table! Brand new in sealed box! US $202.50 (28 Bids) Auction Ends: Monday May-21-2012 9:02:55 PDT   | Watch this Item

Professional Foldable Zero Gravity Inversion table Therapy Gravity Machine 13 US $98.23 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Monday May-21-2012 9:51:02 PDT   | Watch this Item

The ATIS 1000 uses a Smart Gear System, rather than a tether strap to safely lock the table in place in 10 different positions. The Scale Locking System increases ankle security and the table is designed around an extra-wide steel frame with a 300 pound weight capacity.

This model is also 30 pounds heavier than the Gravity 1000, something to consider if you plan to move the table between rooms or store it when not in use. For most users the sturdy, substantial construction will be appreciated the first time they hang themselves upside down. Assembly is straight forward but takes time as there are many pieces to unrap and join together, some relatively heavy.

The ATIS 1000 also incorporates an ab and core training system that effectively isolates abdominals to help strengthen the mid-section and improve posture.

Inversion table therapy addresses the body’s overall health by optimizing lumbar traction and reducing pressure. It effectively increases flexibility, stimulates circulation and relieves back stress and pain associated with pressure on vertebrae disks.

Ironman ATIS 1000 Ab Training Inversion Table Product Details

• Combination inversion table and ab/core training system
• Sturdy, heavy duty oval tubing steel frame
• Thick nylon backrest and memory foam vinyl pillow for comfortable head support
• Ergonomically molded ankle cushions
• 10 different inversion locking angles
• Extra long safety handles
• Rubber non-skid floor stabilizers for added security
• Height-adjustable frame supports users up to 6′ 6″ and 300 pounds
• Side holder for cell phones, eyeglasses, watches etc.
• Measures 26″ x 62″ x 49″ and weighs 76 pounds
• Folds for storage

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Click here for the Ironman ATIS 1000 AB Training System Inversion Table
• See all Ironman Inversion Tables on Amazon
  
• Find more Ironman Inversion Tables on eBay

The table is relatively lightweight but strong and sturdy enough to accommodate users between 4′ 8″ and 6′ 8″ and weights of up to 250 lbs.

Inversion angles are managed using an innovative pull-pin adjustment mechanism. The increments are not as precise or easy to adjust as high-end models but the table does lock firmly and safely in place.

The safety strap helps manage your desired angles and a safety lock keeps the inversion system secure when not in use. The U-shaped handrails are a nice addition and help further ensure stability and safety during inversion.

The back cushion is made of high density foam, rather than the mesh design seen on some tables, but provides a good level of comfort. However, the foam rollers at the base are known to cause strain on the ankles and feet during inversion, depending on your weight and height. Adding your own padding around the rollers in the form of a small pillow or towel will help alleviate any discomfort.

People with high blood pressure, eye diseases or who are pregnant should consult a doctor before beginning inversion therapy. All users should progress slowly by starting at low angles of inversion. It may also take some time to get acclimated to the sensation of being upside down.

Given the price, this product gets a marginal recommendation for its simplicity and functionality. Those looking for a professional or higher quality alternative should see our Teeter Hang Ups and Kettler APOLLO inversion table reviews.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• The Body Champ IT8070 Inversion Table on Amazon
• See all inversion tables sorted by popularity
• Find more inversion tables listed on eBay

The Teeter Hang Ups Gravity Boots add comfort to inversion therapy by distributing the weight across the foot and lower leg using thick, firm cushioning. The boots are lightweight but very sturdy.

The fine tuning buckles are very similar to those on ski boots, using micro-adjusting ratchets to create a secure and snug fit. Removable calf loops increase comfort and further reduce the load by forming a 2-degree bend in the knees.

For most, inversion takes some getting used to but feels wonderful once accustomed. Ease into the therapy at first with short sessions. Also, if using the EZ-UP Rack be sure you have the strength and stamina to pull yourself back up when finished inverting.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Click here to see the Teeter Hang Ups Gravity Boots on Amazon
  
• See all Teeter inversion boots on eBay

First off, this German built machine is well constructed, strong and stable. Robotically welded “tunnel design steel tubing ” provides superior strength, stability and safety.

The Kettler APOLLO also uses a unique adjustment mechanism for precise incline control. Rather than the nylon straps used on other tables this one incorporates steel bars with adjustable pins. The table can be inverted 180 degrees and beyond, locking itself securely in place in seven fixed positions.

The adjustable footplate provides quick height adjustment using a safety push-button latch release for easy entry and exit. The table is also designed for comfort with a long, thickly padded backboard and soft front and back ankle rollers.

Okay, so what’s the down side? Assembly is not as easy and straight forward as we’d like. Plan to spend about 2-3 hours before climbing aboard and getting inverted.

For those unfamiliar with inversion tables some of the benefits include relief from back pain and discomfort associated with nerve pressure, muscle spasms, and disk compression. They can also be used for general stretching, abdominal exercises and core training.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Find this Kettler APOLLO Inversion Trainer Table on Amazon
• See all inversion tables currently available on eBay
  

Inversion therapy addresses back pain associated with spinal compression and has become a viable alternative to anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections and electrical stimulation.

The Paradigm 500 Inversion Table is very similar to the Ironman Gravity series. The system features comfortable foot straps and uses a patented ratchet ankle mechanism that lets you adjust the tightness of the cushions with the touch of a button. Inversion can put stress on the feet and ankles so this extra feature is essential in our opinion.

In addition to treating back pain, muscle tension and helping circulation, inversion tables can be used to add extra resistance to many exercises including sit-ups, inverted crunches, back extensions and inverted squats.

The Paradigm 500 includes a comfortable, soft nylon backrest and adjustable tether safety straps. The durable tubular steel frame is scratch resistant and the feel when in use is solid and stable. Assembly is easy and can be completed in as little as 30 minutes.

Paradigm 500 Inversion Table Product Details

• Relieve back stress or add extra resistance to exercise
• Durable design with scratch resistant steel frame
• Accommodates users up to 300 lbs and 6′ 6″ in height
• Ratchet ankle system with comfortable ankle cushions
• Durable padded nylon backrest and protective side covers
• Rubber non-skid floor stabilizers
• Nylon tether strap for safety
• Folds up for convenient storage

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Click here to find the Paradigm 500 Inversion Table System on Amazon
• See more inversion tables on eBay
  

Using the natural force of earth’s gravity Teeter has been helping relieve back pain for over 20 years. Elongating the spine increases the space between vertebrae and reduces pressure on discs, ligaments, and nerve roots. Reduced pressure means reduced pain and better posture.

An upgrade to the F5000 model, the Teeter Hang Ups EP-550 Inversion Therapy Table adds new Flex Technology allowing the table backrest to bend and conform to your body while performing exercises. This simple improvement adds precision, a greater range of motion and improved results. The table easily rotates and pivots to multiple comfortable angles with a simple shift of arm weight. Smooth rotation allows for better mobility, stretching and decompression when the bed is inverted.

Another innovative new feature is the adjustable roller hinge that lets you choose between three levels of rotation resistance. A tether strap adjusts the maximum angle of inversion between 20, 40 and 60 degrees. The new foot platform includes two settings for optimal ankle comfort and security. EZ Stretch Traction Handles improve inverted stretching and table oscillation.

The Teeter EP-550 Inversion Table can safely accommodate users up to 6′ 6″‘ and 300 lbs and folds for space saving storage. It ships 85% pre-assembled and includes the tools needed to easily complete assembly. Includes adjustable head pillow, instructional DVD and laminated owner’s manual.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Click here for the Teeter Hang Ups EP-550 Inversion Therapy Table on Amazon

Teeter Hang Ups F5000 Inversion Tables on eBay

Teeter Hang Ups EP-550 Inversion Therapy Table! Brand new in sealed box! US $202.50 (28 Bids) Auction Ends: Monday May-21-2012 9:02:55 PDT   | Watch this Item

Teeter Hang Ups EP-550 Inversion Table HangUp Flex-Tech US $299.00 Auction Ends: Monday May-21-2012 11:50:25 PDT   | Watch this Item

Teeter Hang Ups EP-550 Gravity Fitness Inversion Therapy Table Back Pain US $349.70 Auction Ends: Monday May-21-2012 19:55:05 PDT   | Watch this Item