Dangers of Inversion Tables -
Is Hanging Upside-Down Safe?
What are the dangers of inversion tables - if any? After all, we were meant to be upright - it seems so unnatural to be hanging upside-down. Of course, if
all the benefits
came with significant risks, you would not see inversion tables for sale and they would not be so highly recommended as a method of relieving back pain - and many other problems.
Stuntman David Blaine looks relaxed while inverting for 60 hours straight.
Are there dangers of inversion tables malfunctioning? - I don't want to land on my head!
This might be your legitimate first concern. If you buy a cheap, department-store model that might happen. But with a quality-made inversion table there is virtually no risk. The probability of a quality inversion table made with a frame of high-carbon steel (which is the only kind you should buy) breaking is probably less than the chance of a wheel suddenly falling off while you are driving your car.
Are there dangers of inversion tables causing health problems?
Some users get concerned because their face gets red when inverted but this is actually good as it indicates increased blood flow to the brain, eyes, skin and hair. As you use it, you will get used to the feeling and, if too uncomfortable, simply invert at less of an angle or for a shorter time - your body will adjust. When starting inverting it is completely normal to feel a little pressure in your head until your body adjusts to the reverse in gravity. Remember, your body is doing something it's not used to doing - just like how it has to adjust to a new exercise program.
If you have high blood pressure, heart disease or an eye condition you should check with your doctor before inverting. Inversion can cause a state of relaxation that results in a drop in heart rate and BP (sometimes even lower than at a resting state). Some doctors have used inversion as a treatment for high BP.
Is it save to invert with fused vertebra? There are many types of fusion surgeries. Some post fusion patients are helped by inversion. Any fusion patient (or anyone post-surgery) should consult with a licensed physician before inverting.
If you have any concerns, you should check with your doctor before inverting.
Inversion Contraindications - As good as inverting is, it is not for everyone. If you have any of the following health conditions, please do not invert without your licensed physician's approval (this is not an exhaustive list - it is intended only for your reference.)
- Use of anti-coagulants
- Bone weakness/recent fractures/skeletal implants
- Heart/circulatory disorders
- Hiatal hernia/ventral hernia
- Middle ear infection
- Pregnancy
- Severe spinal cord trauma
- Total hip and/or knee replacement
- Osteoporosis
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- Pink eye
- Glaucoma
- High blood pressure/hypertension
- Extreme obesity (300+ pounds)
- Retinal detachment
- Stroke
- Transient ischemic attack
- Any spinal surgery
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Important Note: If you have any of the conditions above, it does NOT mean that you can't use an inversion table. It simply means we're required to advise you to seek out a professional opinion from your doctor before using one. People should not invert if they have uncontrolled high blood pressure.
Extensive research on the subject, he discovered that the body actually has mechanisms that prevent damage from hanging upside down. (Note: These studies were based on patients in generally good health - see the contraindications above.
In fact... in 2008 stunt-master David Blaine (picture at top) hung upside down for 3 full-days (a total of 60 hours)... without experiencing any type of health problems whatsoever. His eyes were fine, his blood pressure was perfect, and his heart and lungs were great!
Product pages:
Sales page for HBI Premium Inversion Table
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