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What Is the Difference Between Spinal Decompression vs Inversion Table?

As a chiropractor, I frequently get asked about the difference between spinal decompression and inversion table therapy. Many people find themselves in pain living their daily lives with an underlying issue they want to understand before committing to treatment such as regular visits or purchasing equipment for home use. In this blog post, we will look at each of these treatments – Spinal Decompression vs Inversion Table Therapy – how they differ, and which one would be best suited for you if dealing with chronic back pain or other spine-related issues. With proper knowledge of both options, you may create a comprehensive approach towards finding relief from your spine health problems.

As a general rule, the difference between an inversion table provides a unique way to experience spinal decompression using gravity. With this method, you lie on a table that gradually turns you upside down, helping to relieve pressure on your discs. Non-surgical spinal decompression uses a computerized system to gently stretch and separate the segments in your back or neck, offering relief from discomfort and tension. 

What is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression?

spinal decompression

Nonsurgical spinal decompression involves using a computerized traction system to gently stretch the spine. This method aims to alleviate pressure on spinal disks, nerves, and other structures in the back or neck. It is often used to treat pain or discomfort related to back or neck pain, sciatica, bulging or herniated disks, and more.

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What Is Inversion Table Therapy?

An inversion table involves a device that allows you to lie upside down to potentially relieve the pressure of gravity on your back and neck. This method is used to create more space between your vertebrae, potentially giving a sense of stretch or relaxation.

Do Inversion Tables Help With Spinal Decompression?

Inversion tables have been used as an alternative form of non-surgical spinal decompression, but it’s important to remember that this type of therapy should be designed and monitored by a back expert. Without proper direction and guidance, inversion tables may not be the best for achieving relief from chronic back pain. With that being said, done properly and with the guidance from an expert, inversion tables can definitely be helpful in non-surgically decompressing the spine and helping relieve tension created from muscular contractions over prolonged periods of time.

Do Chiropractors Recommend Inversion Tables?

Many people experience back pain and wonder whether chiropractors recommend inversion tables for relief. The answer is no; generally, chiropractors usually do not recommend inversion tables as part of a treatment plan. Although these tables may provide temporary relief from lower back pain, they are no substitute for non-surgical spinal decompression – which is the recommended course of action by most chiropractors. Spinal decompression works to counter the forces of gravity that compress vertebrae and discs in the spine, providing long-term relief from back pain without the need for medicines or invasive treatments. Combining spinal decompression therapy with exercise and stretching helps further strengthen your core muscles and can provide even greater longer lasting benefits.

Is It Good to Decompress Your Spine?

 

Spinal decompression is a popular topic among doctors and patients alike as a way to potentially relieve pain from conditions such as herniated discs and sciatica. Generally speaking, doctors typically recommend non-surgical spinal decompression instead of resorting to surgery. While it has not been clinically proven to help relieve pain, many reports that it can help in reducing or eliminating symptoms associated with the condition. Many patients find relief after sessions of spinal decompression because it relaxes adjacent muscles, improves joint movements and reduces inflammation in the affected area. In certain cases, doctors may opt for things such as medication or physical therapy before recommending spinal decompression. Nevertheless, it is still important to consult with your doctor before engaging in any kind of treatment so they can evaluate your condition and determine which method is best for you.

What Is the Best Way to Decompress Your Spine?

If you’re looking for a way to decompress your spine, doctors typically recommend non-surgical techniques such as yoga and stretching. Yoga exercises are a great way to target tight muscles in the back and core that cause compression of your spine. Stretching helps to release tension in your body and realign ligaments, tendons, and vertebrae. Additionally, doctors may recommend other forms of exercise such as swimming or Pilates, which can help build strength and flexibility in the spine. Other practices exist too; meditation or breathing exercises might be suggested if feelings of stress and tension are contributing to your spinal compression. Ultimately, it is best to always seek advice from your doctors before trying any new activity or technique to decompress your spine.

Spinal Decompression

What Do Doctors Say About Inversion Tables?

Doctors are usually not fans of inversion tables, as they don’t treat the root cause of most lower back conditions. Most doctors prefer to recommend non-surgical spinal decompression techniques such as yoga, physiotherapy, and even massage. Spinal decompression helps to reduce back pain by allowing the joints to move more freely and promoting the return of the normal function to the spine. Even though doctors typically steer away from recommending inversion tables, anecdotal evidence suggests that it may benefit some people struggling with chronic back pain. Ultimately it’s important to have an open dialogue with your doctor and make an informed decision together based on your individual needs.

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Is Inversion Table Good for Bulging Disc?

Many doctors typically don’t like inversion tables for treating bulging discs since the effects may sometimes be dangerous. While an inversion table may temporarily help alleviate back pain, doctors usually recommend non-surgical spinal decompression as a more reliable and effective treatment instead. In any case, it is always important to consult with your doctor on the best treatment option if you have a bulging disc.  It is ultimately up to the individual’s own judgement and discretion whether to use an inversion table for a bulging disc.

Who Should Not Use Inversion Tables?

Inversion tables are not suitable for everyone. Doctors typically don’t like the idea of inverting, and usually recommend non-surgical spinal decompression instead. People with certain conditions such as high blood pressure, heart conditions, ulcers, glaucoma, and pregnancy should not use an inversion table; doctors may require clearance from a specialist such as an eye-care doctor for individuals who suffer from glaucoma before endorsing any exercise that involves inverting the body. Those on regular medications and those weighing more than 300 pounds should also avoid using inversion tables. If you’re uncertain if an inversion table is safe for you to use, it’s important to consult your doctor before beginning any new physical activity regimen.

What Are the Negative Effects of an Inversion Table?

Inversion therapy, or the use of an inversion table, is a physical fitness technique that has become increasingly popular as a means to alleviate back pain and improve spinal health. However, doctors typically don’t like using inversion tables for their patients and usually recommend non-surgical spinal decompression instead. One of the main negative effects associated with an inversion table is it may not be suitable for everyone since these tables put too much stress on the body–especially if used incorrectly or overused. People with high blood pressure, glaucoma and vertigo should also avoid using an inversion table since it can have serious effects on their physical and mental well-being. While doctors may approve of inversion tables as part of a supervised physical therapy program, other forms of exercise are often recommended due to the potential risks associated with this type of fitness technique.

Can an Inversion Table Fix a Pinched Nerve?

Chiropractors and medical doctors have no clear consensus about the efficacy of using an inversion table to fix a pinched nerve. Some may suggest trying it, while others are likely to steer away from the practice. I would personally lean away from such a therapy. Because no official professional opinion has been agreed upon, people who suffer from this painful condition should consult with their healthcare provider before trying out an inversion table. In many cases, doctors usually prefer to recommend non-surgical spinal decompression to alleviate back pain caused by a pinched nerve instead of jumping straight into inversion therapy.

Summary

Spinal decompression and inversion table therapy are two possible options for people looking to improve their spine health. By understanding the difference between the two treatments, you can make an informed decision about which one would be best suited for you if dealing with chronic back pain or other spine-related issues. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about non-surgical spinal decompression, please contact us today. We offer a variety of services including non-invasive chiropractic care and physiotherapy that could help relieve your pain and improve your overall spine health.

Sources:

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https://koreascience.kr/article/JAKO201218552490144.page

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https://koreascience.kr/article/JAKO201016637928235.page

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https://sosherniateddisc.com/studies/

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https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jpts/24/9/24_829/_article/-char/ja/

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https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1356689X08001379

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https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1533-2500.2007.00167.x

 

 

 

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