Health Risks of Body Inverters

People use body inverters, or inversion tables, to facilitate a treatment technique known as inversion therapy, which is typically used to provide relief from back pain. Inversion is essentially a form of spinal traction that uses gravitational force to reduce compressive forces on the nerve roots and inter-vertebral discs. According to The Mayo Clinic, inversion therapy poses health risks for individuals with certain medical conditions, and potential users should always consult a physician before beginning to use an inverter.

Fractures and Dislocations

Inversion therapy places excessive force on the bones and joints in an atypical manner. This can result in fractured or dislocated bones which can require medical care. Individuals with conditions such as osteoporosis, osteopenia, recent fractures or implants should definitely begin by discussing the therapy with their personal physicians.

Spinal Injury

Body inverters can help alleviate spinal pain via decompression of the vast complex of structures in the back. The Mayo Clinic states that inversion therapy can temporarily improve back pain associated with spinal disc compression in some individuals 1. However, such devices can actually cause a spinal injury or worsen a preexisting condition for certain patients.**

The Mayo Clinic also states that inversion therapy has not been proven to be particularly effective at providing long-term pain relief. Based on these findings, the benefit of pain relief may not outweigh the risks associated with inversion. If you suffer from a spinal condition or back pain, see your doctor prior to pursuing inversion therapy 1.

Eye Damage

As the body inverter progresses to a vertical position, there is an increase in ocular pressure. This can be extremely dangerous for individuals with certain pathologies of the eye. One specific condition that contraindicates the use of an inversion table is glaucoma. This condition is the result of increased pressure within the eyes and can lead to optical nerve damage and deterioration of vision. It is recommended that anyone with eye problems consult an ophthalmologist prior to using an inversion table.

Hernias

Hernias occur when an organ in the body protrudes out of its containing wall or cavity. Using an inverter risks developing a hiatal hernia, which occurs as a result of increased intra-abdominal pressure. This increased pressure causes the stomach to protrude through a weak section of the diaphragm into the chest. Body inversion can also precipitate hernias in people with abdominal weakness.

Another common hernia is the ventral hernia which forms at the site of previous surgery. Individuals who have undergone recent surgery, have a history of hernia or have a weak core must consult a physician prior to inverting.