Inversion Tables

An inversion table is an apparatus that you lie down on so that you can hang upside down or at an inverted angle. Inversion therapy is a form of stretching said to help relieve back pain and stress, improve posture, strengthen the core and ligaments and increase circulation. Practitioners say that gravity's pull decompresses the joints and puts the spine in alignment, relieving pressure on the discs and nerves. Some say that by using an inversion table, they can relieve the pressure of tight muscles in a way that can't be achieved by simply lying on the back. Enthusiasts also like that the table stimulates circulation, giving them the opposite flow of blood that they would have when standing up.

Inversion therapy is a controversial practice. Many doctors believe that hanging upside down can only provide temporary back pain relief and that the possible side effects (headaches, bleeding into the retina, and worsening back pain) are not worth the risk.

An inversion table will cost you between $100-$2000. You might be able to find one in your local gym or yoga studio.