Many people ask my opinion on inversion tables. If you’re unfamiliar, an inversion table is a device that tilts you upside down, allowing gravity to help relieve pressure along your spine. This can be especially appealing for people with back or neck pain, as it aims to decompress the spine and provide relief. In my view, it offers a good general stretch that’s beneficial for most people. Plus, it’s both economical and convenient, allowing you to perform it at home on a regular basis.

However, one downside to using an inversion table is that, because it only provides a broad, general stretch, it may primarily affect areas of your spine that are already fairly mobile. This means that it might not reach or effectively stretch the more restricted areas that could be the actual source of your discomfort.

If you’re not experiencing the relief you’re looking for, I highly recommend consulting with a physical therapist. At Your Neighbor Physical Therapy, we can provide localized, hands-on treatment to the specific areas of your spine that need it most, addressing the root cause of your discomfort. This way, you’re more likely to achieve lasting relief and improve your overall spinal health.