Back problem Guys - Inversion table?

[hamerhead]

I have 1 flattened and 1 bulging disk in my lower back, so I'm pretty much in constant pain. I've thought about getting an inversion table, and now my sister-in-law swears by her recent purchase.

Before I take the plunge, do any of you have any experience with them?

[ib2010]

Good book--- amazon--- "Back RX by Vijay Vadd " Simple stretch/yoga/pilates/breathing -- recharges everything--- Best wishes

[hamerhead]

The table arrived Monday. Instead of leaving it in the box for a few weeks like normal, I set it up right away.

The thing is pretty well built, solid and sturdy. Properly adjusted and balanced, it will tip to any angle depending on the position of your arms. Figuring that out helped a bit. The infrared heat is time-and-temperature adjustable, and works well. It seems to help. The foot holder dealies are as comfortable as a thing that holds you upside down can be - good for a short while.

I wasn't going to give an update until I'd used it for a while, but after about 8-10 minutes a day for the past 3 days, my back feels better than it has in about 15 years. No sh!t. The pain that typically runs down my left buttcheek is significantly better for a few hours. Hopefully the longer I use it, the longer the pain will be kept at bay. At this point, I'm very happy with the short-term results.

And that should give you a pretty good idea of the true depth of my moronishness - why didn't I do this 15 years ago?!? Dumbass.

[ZR]

We have an Ironman inversion table and we don't use it that often, but it's there and very effective when we do...plus the sexual possibilities are endless!

I chose the Ironman because it was such a great value. It was around $120 or so on Amazon w/ free shipping. It's very stoutly constructed and it seems like it will last about forever. My wife likes that it has a strap that limits the vertical angle for her to about 45 degrees. I like using it at near vertical. Has adjustable boots that don't hurt and feel secure, well padded, heavy steel construction, height adjustability etc.

When my lower back hurts I start doing squats and it goes away, so try those as well. Now I just need to do that all the time so I can help prevent problems in the first place!

Like others have said, strengthening your core will greatly lower the stress on your spine. Be careful how you sit at your computer; some people recommend putting your feet on a foot riser. Take breaks often which is good for your eyes as well. Good luck!

[Twisted Metal]

Been using a Teeter for 15 years or so.

Regular Chiro appts help, but I have Ankylosing Spondylitis (think Mick Mars) and the inverstion table helps a TON.

Me too, it has certainly helped my AS when i have bad days (fortunately nowhere near as bad as Mick)

I have the F7000 and never had a prob with it.