The effect of gravity on the human body takes its toll over time. Although it is something you cannot taste, touch, see or hear, the consequences of this constant downward force are obvious to most of us. If it were not for gravity, we would not be walking the earth as we do; rather we would be floating bodies above its surface.
One of the end results of this constant pull is compression of the spine and joints in the human body. The discs of the spinal cord lose moisture and tend to compress over the course of our waking hours. In case you haven't guessed, this phenomenon can wreak havoc with a back that's already feeling the pain from an injury or disorder.
One possible way to relieve the painful outcome of this combination is the use of inversion therapy. By allowing our bodies to hang upside down for a time, the spine can decompress and effect that gravity has on that aching back is reversed. This can be accomplished several different ways. One example of inversion therapy involves using an inversion table. These are readily available at many major retail outlets. An example is shown below:
Another method is by learning the practice of yoga. There are many yoga postures that are "anti gravity" and will serve to decompress the spine. Many of the postures are easy to learn even if you are just a beginner!
The final example of inversion therapy in today's post employs the use of gravity boots.
One of the end results of this constant pull is compression of the spine and joints in the human body. The discs of the spinal cord lose moisture and tend to compress over the course of our waking hours. In case you haven't guessed, this phenomenon can wreak havoc with a back that's already feeling the pain from an injury or disorder.
One possible way to relieve the painful outcome of this combination is the use of inversion therapy. By allowing our bodies to hang upside down for a time, the spine can decompress and effect that gravity has on that aching back is reversed. This can be accomplished several different ways. One example of inversion therapy involves using an inversion table. These are readily available at many major retail outlets. An example is shown below:
Gravity boots are really ankle supports, that, when worn, allow a person to hang upside down like a bat. These can also be purchased at major retailers. They are be used in conjunction with inversion tables or sometimes wall mounted bars made specifically for this purpose. Here is an old "Archie" cartoon depicting the use of boots with an inversion table!
In closing, I once again remind you to check with your health care team before using inversion therapy. It is generally not recommended for folks with heart disease, high blood pressure, glaucoma, or acid reflux and there are some risks during pregnancy. It's a good idea to have someone on hand during first attempts at inversion therapy in case assistance becomes needed.
Happy inversion!
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