How Does Inversion Therapy or Hanging Upside Down Help Back Pain
The vertebrae are separated by discs. These discs help in movement and shock absorption.
Vigorous exercises or repetitive strain on the spine from activities such as running results in compression of the discs.
Due to compression of the discs, this material protrudes out and puts pressure on the nerves resulting in a condition known as slipped disc or herniated disc.
In inversion therapy, when the body is inverted or is hanging upside down, it causes the space between the vertebrae to increase, which reduces the pressure on the discs.
The nerves exit the spine through the spaces between the vertebrae and increase in these spaces reduces the compression on the nerve roots and discs, which helps in reducing the back pain.
If the body is oscillated or moved up and down on an inversion table, it causes a pumping action which helps the fluids around the spinal discs to expel the waste out and help in spreading the fluid around the discs.
Inversion therapy or hanging upside down also helps in relaxing the muscles, which in turn increases blood circulation through the muscles.
Frequency of Inversion Therapy for Back Pain
The frequency of inversion therapy depends on the cause for inverting.
In case of a back problem, two to three times a day is sufficient. As the back problem abates, the frequency of inversion therapy can be decreased.
After complete recovery of back pain, it is beneficial if the athlete includes inversion therapy in his training regime at least twice a week.
How Does Inversion Therapy or Hanging Upside Down Help Back Pain
Team PainAssist
Written, Edited or Reviewed By: Team PainAssist, Pain Assist Inc.
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