Inversion Therapy Dangers

Inversion therapy is a treatment for back pain that was first used over 2000 years ago. The treatment, which involves hanging upside down or at a slightly inverted angle, supposedly relieves tension in the spine as the weight of your body naturally "stretches" the spine. Proponents claim that this not only helps ease back pain but also slows the aging of the spine. Be sure to read about the possible inversion therapy dangers listed below before you give the treatment a try.

Conditions that Don't Mix with Inversion Therapy

• If any of these conditions apply to you, you should avoid inversion therapy altogether: pregnancy, hernia, high blood pressure, recent stroke, heart or circulatory problems, glaucoma, conjunctivitis ("pink eye"), detached retina, spinal injury, swollen joints, osteoporosis, unhealed fractures or injuries, ear infection or obesity.

Degree of Inversion

• Another commonly mentioned inversion therapy danger is inverting at an angle that's too severe. This especially applies to beginners, who should start out at a very slight angle.

Spotters for Beginners

• In addition to inverting at a slight angle (with feet 12 inches or less above the head), beginners should also be sure to have someone "spotting" them. Inverting for the first time can cause dizziness, so it's important to have someone close by to assist you if necessary.

Stroke or Popped Blood Vessels

• In 1983, a study was published by a Dr. Goldman, who stated that inversion therapy increased a patient's risk of stroke. However, shortly thereafter, Dr. Goldman reversed his findings, stating that the risk of stroke during inversion therapy wasn't any different than the risk of stroke while exercising upright.

Expert Insight

• To be on the safe side, check with your doctor before you begin inversion therapy.