Inversion Therapy for Headaches

Suffering from frequent headaches can cause a person to frequently miss work, develop depressive disorders and interrupt daily social interactions creating feelings of isolation. Inversion therapy, otherwise known as hanging upside down, has anecdotal claims that it can help those who suffer from frequent migraines.

Inversion Therapy Benefits

• The actual cause of migraines is not known. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are theories that suggest that chemical imbalances with dilated blood floor can be at the root of the migraine. Triggers include hormone changes, foods, stress or alterations in sleep patterns.

  Inversion therapy claims to release tension in the neck, shoulders and back by having gravity work with you instead of against you. Inverting regularly generally means doing inversion therapy one to three times per week. Those who regularly do inversion therapy claim to have fewer headaches. Theoretically, the increased circulation from inversion and from reduced stress can help nourish the brain, maintaining proper chemical balances preventing migraines from triggering.

  There have been no studies to substantiate the claims that inversion therapy can help migraines, and more investigation needs to be conducted.

Inversion Process

• There are several methods of inversion therapy. The first uses inversion boots on a pull-up bar that is set-up in a door frame. The second is to use an inversion table. The third is a modified version using an inclined bench more commonly used for sit-ups or inverse bench presses.

  Regardless of what machine method you use, you will secure your body upside down for a few minutes at a time. It is wise to have a friend spot you the first few times you invert in case you get stuck or lightheaded. The primary thing to "do" when inverted is to hang. You can do minor stretches or twists to loosen your joints and stimulate blood flow. Inversion therapy should not be confused with an inverted workout where you perform sit-ups and other workout routines upside down. Inversion therapy is designed to allow your spine to decompress, and it should be as relaxed as possible during inversion.

Warning

• Always check with your doctor before starting an inversion therapy program. Inversion therapy can pose serious health risks to certain individuals. Blood pressure is a major concern for doctors regarding inversion therapy. Complications from extended inversion (more than a few minutes) can be pressure build up in the eyes and stress on the heart. Those with pressure issues in their eye or those who have coronary heart disease should not invert.

  It isn't recommended to perform inversion therapy while you have a headache or migraine. The blood flow to the brain and the changes in blood pressure could worsen your headache symptoms.