Traction is often used by physiotherapists to help relieve back pain by decompressing the spine. Spinal decompression is recommended to people suffering from nerve pain, back pain and all other spine diseases which can be degenerative in nature. Spine decompression techniques include the current methods of using spinal decompression machine and inversion tables.

The technology of machines used in traction varies greatly, yet they all do generally the same thing. Some tables are very simple and archaic looking. Others are fully computerized.

An inversion table is very helpful, used in inversion therapy, which is also a method of treating spine decompression through inversion. Inversion or hanging upside down using the inversion table provides a definite amount of traction to the spine allowing it decompress.

Modern style inversion therapy usually involves inversion tables, inversion chairs, hanging upside down, aided by gravity boots, or assuming traditional yoga poses such as handstands, headstands and shoulder stands.

Is inversion therapy safe?

While inversion therapy can do wonders for lower back pain and sciatic nerve pain, people who have high blood pressure or heart disease should always consult their physicians before trying it.

They are great options for the treatment of spinal compressions however each one has its own disadvantages as well. Spinal decompression therapy and the machine used are very expensive.

The non-surgical decompression of spinal nerve roots can be highly effective in reducing the pain and other symptoms associated with spinal nerve root compression.

Inversion table therapy allows us to temporarily relieve the pressure on those discs. The table reverses the pull of gravity. Actually, when you’re inverted, gravity is working to help you with your back pain by pulling your spine the other way – stretching, instead of compressing.