Our spine acts as the pillar which supports the weight of our body, no matter what position we’re in—standing or sitting. Even when lying down, massive amounts of pressure is exerted onto our spine. Over time, this continued pressure can result in chronic back pain.
Enter inversion tables.
This amazing therapeutic device provides relief to your spine by stretching the lumbar and reducing the amount of pressure each vertebra exerts on its neighbor. So say goodbye to back pain!
FeedFond is here with the complete buyer’s guide to choosing the best inversion table on the market. This guide will help you understand inversion tables, its health benefits and teach you how to properly use this equipment. We will also include inversion table reviews and recommendations so that you can make an informed choice when it comes time to make a purchase.
Let’s jump right in.
Contents & Quick Navigation
- Best Inversion Tables – Comparison Table
- Best Inversion Table Reviews
- Teeter Inversion Table Reviews
- Innova Inversion Table Reviews
- Ironman Inversion Table Reviews
- What is an Inversion Table?
- How Do Inversion Tables Help Back Pain?
- Other Health Benefits of an Inversion Table
- 01. It keeps your discs hydrated
- 02. It helps maintain height
- 03. It improves blood circulation
- 04. It improves the lymph system
- 05. It relieves sciatic nerve pain
- 06. It increases flexibility
- 07. It helps clear with your sinus
- 08. It promotes easier breathing
- 09. It boosts the immune system
- 10. It helps maintain good posture
- 11. It strengthens the ligaments
- 12. It improves the quality of sleep
- 13. It reduces fatigue
- 14. It helps with depression and mood swings
- How to Use an Inversion Table?
- Buyer’s Guide to Inversion Tables
- Safety concerns regarding Inversion tables
- Conclusion
Best Inversion Tables – Comparison Table
Last update on 2018-09-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Inversion Table Reviews
It’s easy to get overwhelmed when buying the best inversion tables. There are hundreds of choices on the market and not all of them are good. We have taken products from the best brands with proven and trusted reputation. They are built for quality and have 5-star reviews from many satisfied customers.
We’ve included a detailed buyer’s guide just after the reviews for your convenience.
Teeter Inversion Table Reviews
For over 27 years, Teeter products have been leading the market for inversion tables. They are all about being unique and have helped thousands with back pain relief. All Teeter products are registered with the FDA as a 510 k medical device. They are determined to provide customers with the best possible features and strongly dissuade them from getting cheap, counterfeit products.
#1: Teeter EP-560 with Back Pain Relief Kit
Overview:
When it comes to brand reassurance and quality, there is none greater than Teeter EP-560. It comes in two variants, but the one with the Back Pain Relief Kit has the most features. The EP-560 is not only foldable and compact; it also has removable acupressure nodes that enhance your decompression experience. The patented ComforTrak bed is flexible and the unit can handle anyone under 300lbs.
What we love about it:
The Teeter EP-560 has excellent balancing. It’s so precise that it allows you to fully control what angle you want to invert it.
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#2: Teeter EP-960 LTD – Best Inversion Table
Overview:
Another great product with the brand quality from Teeter. The Teeter EP-960 is similar in many ways to the EP-560, but with premium, improved features. The EP-960 has extended ankle lock that reduces bending and Ergo-Embrace supports which provides the best ankle supports when inverted. The precision rotation control was also improved and made easy to use. The acupressure and lumbar bridge are also present making this one of the most desired Teeter product on the market.
What we love about it:
Teeter provides extra-long stretch max handles for the Ep-960 along with traction handles for better oscillation.
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Innova Inversion Table Reviews
A company dedicated to building various fitness products, Innova inversion tables are one of the best on the market. They are attentive to small details in their products and the customer service they provide is excellent. Innova is always researching new ways to improve their products. It’s definitely a brand to watch, as they are always thinking long-term with their innovations.
#1: Innova ITX9600 Heavy Duty – Best Inversion Table
Overview:
Innova ITX9600 is an amazing inversion table which comes available at a lower price, considering other inversion tables. The build and manufacturing quality aren’t compromised at all, despite its being in the lower price range. The unit was designed with the user’s comfort in mind. The pin lock gives the user 5 different angles for inversion and the ankle cups provide a safe and comfortable inversion experience.
What we love about it:
Superb build quality with a comfortable backrest. Other likable features include stable ankle rests and easy-to-grip foam handles.
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#2: Innova ITM4800 Therapeutic Inversion Table
Overview:
Another great selection from Innova, the ITM4800 can handle up to 300lbs of weight and has a height range of 4’10” to 6’6”. The headrest pad and the ankle lock systems have been upgraded from the ITX9600 too! The headrest provides better comfort and the chain-like ankle lock is more secure and comfortable. All these features with the True Balance give you a better control of the ITM4800 inversion table.
What we love about it:
The ITX4800 is a therapeutic heat massager, meaning the table vibrates and distributes heat to your lower back. This helps you unwind those wound-up muscles and help you relax.
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#3: Innova ITX9700 Memory Foam Inversion Table
Overview:
The Innova ITX9700 was designed to provide a safe, comfortable and relaxed inversion therapy experience. In addition to the usual benefits from Innova products, this unit focuses on comfort—something you should pay heed to if you are a regular user. The best thing about this is the hot/cold compress pain relief and muscle relaxation feature. Remember, it’s an additional feature, so you’ll pay for it, but it’s worth every penny.
What we love about it:
It’s a product made for luxury and durability, best used in open spaces like e.g. exercise rooms. The build quality is superb and the unit provides you with complete control of the table.
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Ironman Inversion Table Reviews
If you ask any fitness enthusiast, they will know all about Ironman products. They are very popular with all their fitness products and their inversion tables are no different. You can enjoy a lot of features with Ironman inversion tables without the premium price. Staying true to fitness, they focus on the buyer’s needs rather than making a profit. Their quality remains constant across the board.
#1: IRONMAN Gravity 4000 Heavy Weight – Best Inversion Table
Overview:
Ironman Gravity 4000 is the best heavyweight inversion table in the market. With a backrest of memory foam aiding spinal support and relieving back pressure, this unit can handle up to 350lbs. In addition, the table has longer handles to give better control to the user. The table is firm and built from durable materials. The Gravity 4000 inversion table is simple, effective and secure.
What we love about it:
The stability is one of it’s best features. The base has rubber stabilizer making it skid-proof. This keeps the unit still while going inverted.
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#2: IRONMAN Gravity 1000 Inversion Table
Overview:
Another superb product from Ironman Gravity series—the Gravity 1000. This unit is built for its simplicity and strength. There are no fancy attachments with this inversion table, but its frame is constructed of durable steel with non-skid stabilizers at the bottom. It also has long handles and the entire unit is lightweight and portable.
What we love about it:
The ankle cushion is made in ‘bracer’ mode—it’s comfortable and causes less stress on the ankles while staying inverted.
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#3: IRONMAN Gravity 3000 High Capacity Inversion Table
Overview:
The Ironman Gravity 3000 is one-of-a-kind, even amongst inversion tables. The build quality is top-notch, with the backrest made from multi-layered memory foam. The foam is covered by a water-resistant vinyl material and the double stitching makes it durable. The feature-ladened inversion table comes with a very affordable price tag.
What we love about it:
This inversion table can suit almost anyone. It has an adjustable height of 6’6” and can hold up to 350lbs.
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What is an Inversion Table?
An inversion table is a mechanical fitness equipment that positions a person upside down at an inverted angle while hanging by the legs, ankles or feet. This table is used for inversion therapy—a treatment to relieve pressure on your spine.
This therapy has been around for decades and has a multitude of health benefits. The idea is to reverse compression of the spine using gravity, thus relieving painful muscle spasms. The decompression is done by creating space between the vertebrae, which in turn, relieves pressure.
Despite having very little research done on the subject matter, the popularity of inversion tables has been rising increasingly. The effectiveness of inversion therapy is not long-term, but the added health benefits balance the scale quite nicely.
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How Do Inversion Tables Help Back Pain?
When you lie inverted on an inversion table, partially or otherwise, it causes traction in your spine. It decompresses the spine caused by gravity and lessens the occurrence of pinched nerves. The stretching causes the pressure on the spinal discs to lower and relax, thus bringing you relief.
The inversion theory has been around for a long time. In the era of Hippocrates, people with neck and back pain were hung upside down on a ladder to be treated.
To understand the science behind how an inversion tables work, we need to understand the spinal cord mechanism and the way inversion tables work to help the pain.
The Spine Curvature
The spine, or the vertebral column, consists of 24 bones called vertebrae. In between the vertebrae, there are discs filled with fluid and nerves. These discs cushion the two vertebrae from coming into contact with one another.
Gravity, poor posture and age can cause unnatural curvature of the spine. The curvature causes pressure on the discs, which in turn cause pain. Inversion tables cause your spine to stretch in the opposite direction, providing relief.
The Accordion Effect
Sometimes fluid also accumulates in the discs. This causes inflammation from pressure and discomfort. With the use of an inversion table, you can get into a horizontal position and rock your body slowly. This rocking motion will cause an accordion effect on the spine, sucking the gathered fluids from the disc. The pressure off the discs will decrease and give you relief.
Relief from Joint Pressure
Just like your spine, your joints are constantly stressed. It may be due to heavy work or exercise. According to the Natural Arthritis Relief website, using an inversion table causes your muscles to elongate and the joints to relax. This helps reduce pain. Inversion therapy can also correct minor misalignment caused by one-sided activities, such as playing tennis and golf.
In addition to treating scoliosis (the unnatural curvature of the spine), inversion tables help other conditions such as sciatica (the pain in the hips and legs due to pinched nerves in the lower spine) and lordosis (abnormal curving of the spine in the opposite direction).
Related Read: Best Recliner for Back Pain: Reviews and Buying Guide
Other Health Benefits of an Inversion Table
Besides providing relief to your spine and back pain, they also offer a wide range of health benefits.
01. It keeps your discs hydrated
Research shows that when your body is in an inverted position, a small gap appears between your discs. Through this gap, the nutrients and moisture lost with time are reabsorbed through the soft tissue. Your spine and disc become stronger and more flexible.
02. It helps maintain height
Did you know the human body shrinks up to ¾ of an inch on average due to compression from gravity? An inversion table acts against the process by stretching the spine.
03. It improves blood circulation
The blood inside the body travels against gravity. When you are in an inverted state, you’re actually aiding the blood flow, thus improving circulation. Your organs also get decongested, further aiding blood flow.
04. It improves the lymph system
National Arthritis Relief states on their official website that when you are in an inverted position, a noticeable amount of waste gets eliminated from the lymphatic systems. This system travels one way like blood and inverting allows it to cleanse any waste that might hurt you.
05. It relieves sciatic nerve pain
The tingling sensation you feel alongside numbness characterizes nerve pain. An inversion table reduces muscle contractions in the spinal area that may press against the sciatic nerve. It also lessens the pain by stopping the spinal canal from narrowing.
06. It increases flexibility
Inversion tables help stretch joints and muscles, increasing flexibility. A flexible body helps improve your muscle efficiency and promotes a healthier posture. The spine realignment also helps you sit in an upright position.
07. It helps clear with your sinus
This is one of the lesser known benefits, but an inversion table does affect your sinuses positively. As the blood circulation increases, the amount of oxygenated blood reaching your nasal passage also increases. That way the entire nasal system works more efficiently.
08. It promotes easier breathing
When you are inverted, your diaphragm becomes stronger, making it easier for you to breathe. It also encourages you to breathe deeper. This way more oxygen gets into your system, positively affecting your overall health.
09. It boosts the immune system
Studies show that a healthy lymphatic system helps the immune system to function properly. The use of inversion tables promotes better lymphatic system. This way the body stays free of toxins and can ward off infections more effectively.
10. It helps maintain good posture
Bad posture means neck and back pain. It also compresses the spine, causing it to misalign. Using an inversion table will improve your posture and decompress your spine. You will no longer face any problems caused from slouching.
11. It strengthens the ligaments
Ligaments are the glue that holds you together. With weak ligaments, you are more susceptible to broken bones and misalignments. Using an inversion table making your bones healthier by increasing the collagen in your ligaments. It also stretches your body, reversing the effects of overloading.
12. It improves the quality of sleep
Using an inversion table will help improve your sleep quality. It’s unclear how it helps, but many experts have suggested that it’s because of the lowered stress levels. Hanging your body upside down makes your muscles relaxed, increases the flow of oxygen and the lymphatic system eliminates toxins, making you sleep better.
13. It reduces fatigue
Not only does it improve your quality of sleep, it also reduces fatigue and makes you more energetic. Using an inversion table will help you accomplish more tasks during the day. Better posture, increased levels of oxygen in your blood and better circulation combined will ensure that you don’t tire out easily.
14. It helps with depression and mood swings
It’s one of the lesser known benefits of using an inversion table. The University of California conducted a study that shows that inversions caused the depression rate to lower between ages 18-29. None of them had any psychiatric treatment beforehand. Staying inverted lowers your cortisol level, thereby improving your mood. The endorphin levels also increase in your circulation system.
So, these are the benefits of using an inversion table, but how do you use the equipment itself?
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How to Use an Inversion Table?
An inversion table requires you to comfortably lie down upwards and invert yourself gradually at a downward angle. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you learn how to use an inversion table properly.
Step 1: Understanding its limitations
While inversion tables help with the back pain, they are not an alternative to the advice and treatments from doctor, orthopedist, chiropractor or physiotherapist. You have to understand that there are limitations to using inversion tables. The relief from back pain and sciatica due to the use of inversion tables are all short-term and temporary. There are no long-term solutions.
Step 2: Set up your inversion table properly
Clear a space where you can place and use the inversion table. The space should be roomy—anywhere with a minimum of 5 feet of room around the table. Examples of good locations include basements, rec rooms, garages, and attics. The extra room is required to avoid the danger of accidentally banging your head while using it. Put a mat or rug under the table so that it has a secure footing and doesn’t slide.
Step 3: Adjust the table to your needs
All inversion tables can be adjusted according to your height. This is a default feature for all models because it allows maximum effectiveness—nobody is the same height and it must cater to everybody. Inversion tables have a bar with measurements that can be adjusted using a knob. Tighten the knob to secure it properly after you have adjusted it. It’s always a good idea to go through the manual to fully understand the table and how it works, in detail.
Step 4: Get on the table
First, adjust the angle of inversion. Then slowly climb on the table and secure your footing. Use the straps and lock in your ankles. After that, slide onto the table with your back flush with the table while looking up at the ceiling. Finally, lift your hands above your head and recline the table for a set period of time.
Ask for an assistant the first few times, until you get used to getting on the table. While inverted, you can expect your muscles, tendons, ligaments, and the joints of your legs and lower back to stretch. The stretching will not cause any pain. Decompressing the spine caused by the traction will also provide quick relief from pain.
Step 5: Start Slow
You are the only one who can determine the most beneficial amount of time on the table and the best angle for inversion. Start slow and only stay inverted for 5 minutes at a time, to begin. Increase your time if required. Do not stay inverted if to causes back pain or shooting leg pain.
Some benefit from only three, 15-minute weekly sessions. Others take longer and more frequent sessions to get relief. The most common angle of inclination lies between 20-60 degrees. Using a huge dip at first can make you dizzy or give you a headache from the blood rush.
Important Tips
Here are a few tips you should follow when using an inversion table.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Shoes will provide better ankle support, as opposed to being barefoot.
- Secure the safety strap properly.
- Do not take any medication that might make you dizzy and lose control.
- Ask for advice from your chiropractor or physiotherapist.
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Buyer’s Guide to Inversion Tables
For a first-time buyer, it’s imperative that you research as much as possible before buying an inversion table. If you know what to look for, then buy a product worth your money. For starters, you should know that inversion tables fall into the category of weight machines, despite having no weight.
Here’s what you should look for before you buy an inversion table.
Weight Capacity
As you will be hanging from your ankles when using an inversion table, look for models that can withstand your weight. Ones that have better weight capacity will provide you with better service. Also, be sure to check the maximum height as not all tables are suited for exceptionally tall or short people.
Materials and Frame
There are many cheap inversion tables that are made with low-quality plastic, which can be very dangerous. The best inversion tables are made from durable materials such as high carbon steel.
The frame of an inversion table can be static or foldable. Static frames have a larger footprint and are more stable. The size of the inversion table determines its stability. If you don’t have a lot of storage space or an exercise room, opt for a foldable model.
Clamps and Platforms
As each inversion table differs from the other, you should always take note of the quality and positioning of the clamps and platforms. The platform is the space where you stand before securing the clamps around your ankles.
Make sure the platform is strong and can handle your body weight. In addition, as everybody’s foot size varies, make sure that the clamps are adjustable and stays secure.
Back Pads
Lying on a table that has a padded back is always a more comfortable choice. However, overstuffed pads may be uncomfortable and hot, not to mention bad for your back. Focus on the quality of the padding, rather than the quantity.
There are some models that come with a notch which allow you to lie down, face down. Other models have detachable padding which can be reorganized to make more room. You may also want to check out models with molded or honeycomb meshing—it allows better air flow and many found the mesh to be more comfortable than pads.
Motor
Having a motor is not a ‘must-have’ feature on an inversion table. Motors are generally provided on high-end models; they allow the user to rotate the bed. With the touch of a button, it allows the bed to move up and down. It’s convenient and definitely increases the table’s usability.
Vibration Pads
Vibration pads work as a back massager and are the latest addition to all new inversion tables. Whenever you’re relaxing, it’s essential that you massage your muscles and relax them too. Not only does it save you a lot on massage therapy, but it also gives a complete workover when used together with the inversion table. Make sure you use the handbrake to hold the table steady when using this feature.
Budget and Reviews
We all want the best products, but not all may be within our budget. So don’t go looking for fancy brands when you can get the same features at a lower price. Brand names carry a separate value and can boost a product’s price. If you like a specific brand, look for models that suit your needs.
The best way to determine the reliability of a product is by going through the customer reviews. Yes, there will be some negative comments, but don’t be discouraged—take a look at the bigger picture. Sometimes users provide low ratings as the products didn’t work for them. The best inversion tables always have a higher number of good reviews than bad.
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Safety concerns regarding Inversion tables
Generally, there are no harmful side effects of an inversion table, when used properly. However, people with certain medical conditions are advised not to use these tables.
Using an inversion table slightly increases your blood pressure. It also puts pressure on your eyeballs—dramatically. Doctors and medical experts strictly discourage using inversion tables if you have these conditions.
- Bone and joint disorders, such as fractures, osteoporosis, spinal injuries or a herniated disk.
- Cardiovascular disorders such as stroke, heart disease or high blood pressure.
- Infections or diseases such as ear infections, conjunctivitis (pink eye), glaucoma or cerebral sclerosis.
Some additional factors may cause health complications when using an inversion table. Such as:
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Retinal detachment
- Use of blood clotting medications
Inversion takes time. So even if you don’t have the above conditions, you may feel uncomfortable at first. It’s best to start slow and get used to the process.
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Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide will help you select an inversion table perfectly suited to your needs. The main aim of this guide was to help you understand all about inversion tables including its advantages, and safety issues, etc. Remember, you should always select the one that works best for you. May this be your first step in getting rid of back, joint and neck pains.
Important Read: 10 Exercises to Get Relief From Sciatica, Hip and Lower Back Pain
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