You have probably heard of inversion tables, but have you heard of seated inversion therapy systems?
Inversion Therapy
This is used by many people, and it has been a standard form of therapy for sore joints and muscles for many years.
The idea that turning the body upside down can have significant health, body and mind benefits, is no new concept.
Dating back to the time of the Hippocrates, inversion therapy has a long and rich history.
The type of inversion system that you use can make a difference in the benefits that are achieved.
The main challenge with inversion therapy is getting into an inverted position, as well as staying comfortable throughout the exercise. This is what concerns many of those people who wish to engage in this type of therapy.
Two varying products have met this challenge, inversion tables and inversion chairs. For many, seated inversion systems, aka inversion chairs, are one that is the best choice for their needs. What are the benefits of using seated inversion systems and how can it be utilized in the best manner possible for your health needs?
What Are the Advantages of Seated Inversion Therapy Systems?
There are two main advantages to inversion chairs when comparing them to inversion tables and these are noted below:
- The Turn is Easier – Since the user is in a seated position, applying weight backwards, hence initiating inversion, tends to be an easier task.
- Less Strain on the Joints – Using an inversion chair still allows for the benefit of traction, however the seated position puts less strain on the joints. Because of this, common complaints for users of inversion tables, such as hip, knee or ankle strain, are very well addressed.
Precautions to be Aware of Before Trying Inversion Therapy for the First Time
- Whilst many people express positive results of using inversion therapy, like any technique, each individual can respond differently. Before trying any new health therapy it is always advisable to discuss the matter with your health care practitioner.
- Unlike inversion tables, users need not lie flat on their back but instead sit on the product before being hang upside down.
- Not everyone who wants to use inversion therapy wants to do so in a full vertical position. In most cases, the seated inversion therapy system will allow you to adjust the vertical limits of the device so that it maxes out at the pre-decided vertical limit. This makes it easy for you to position where you will be stretching your joints and muscles.
Seated Inversion Therapy Systems – The Benefits
This system is rapidly becoming popular thanks to its various benefits. The following are just some of the plus points of this therapy:
- Seated inversion manages to address the whole upper body, making it ideal for relieving back pain.
- The chair offers excellent support for the user. This particular perk makes it a good choice for individuals incapable of using an inversion table.
- The chair still offers sufficient inversion to help with circulation of the blood and the improvement of the lymphatic system.
- The lumbar support offered in chairs gives excellent control on a person’s pelvis. This makes the chair a better option for people with sensitive low back problems.
- Inversion chair systems are usually cheaper than the inversion table.
- Many models also come with strong straps that help individuals stay in place. These straps are placed for protection purposes and contribute to the stability of the user.
- Inversion tables can sometimes be too intense for the knees and ankles. A seated type however relieves the pressure from these body parts, allowing a comfortable session.
- Chairs are considered safer compared to tables. As a result, it shouldn’t be problematic to use them alone.
Some Drawbacks
Of course, there are also some disadvantages to seated inversion systems. Following are the few cons that must be kept in mind.
- Since you need to be seated for this therapy, the lower portion of the body doesn’t get as much inversion as needed. The leg muscles, though, will still achieve a relaxed state and therefore attain pain relief.
- Chairs cannot offer complete inversion. Compared to tables providing 100% inversion, the chairs can also go as high as 70%.
Market Information
Currently, there are several seated inversion therapy systems available in the market. Note that each one comes with different features, depending on the specific model. Some systems come with extended handlebars for support while others are made up with leather seats for comfort.
If you’re unsure about what inversion system to purchase, it’s always possible to buy a 2-in-1 system. There are currently inversion chairs that can be adjusted and made into inversion tables. Of course, this product type is a tad more expensive, but definitely worth it.
Additional Buying Tips
There are small factors with inversion chairs that many buyers seem to overlook. Although they might not be the first thing you think of, these factors are highly important if you want to experience the best seated inversion therapy:
- Footrest and Ankle Support – although they might not be needed when in normal position, a footrest and ankle support are highly useful when inverted. This will help users feel comfortable with the lower body while adjusting the upper half. With a resting spot for the ankle and feet, users can adjust their lumbar area to experience a more thorough decompression. Note that the two must be adjustable for multiple users.
- Padded Handlebars – handlebars help enforce stability and balance for the user. Using this, individuals can arrange their body more securely and comfortably to get the most out of the position. The handlebars can also help attain the desired angle of inversion as well as place the user back to his original position.
- Materials used – look for an inversion chair with comfortable padding to sit on. It should be soft enough to prevent pain but firm enough to provide stability. The metal used for inversion chairs can be anything from steel to aluminum. Steel is often stronger but heavy and is difficult to store.
Using Seated Inversion Therapy Systems
Note that inversion therapy is not ideal for everyone, regardless of whether it is seated or using a table.
Circulatory, skeletal or other problems may be present that makes the risk more extensive compared to the benefits. It is therefore strongly recommended that you speak to your doctor before attempting to try inversion therapy.
If you are healthy enough for the task however, and your doctor approves, it’s best to start slowly with the inversion.
When seated, try to start a 15-degree inversion at first and allow yourself to get used to the position for 3 minutes. You can increase this by 15 degrees every other day until you feel comfortable enough for maximum inversion.
Never go more than 5 minutes when inverted.
Some health conditions which may pose a problem for inversion therapy (and this list is not exhaustive) are the following:
- A history of stroke
- A history of carotid artery disease
- Hypertension
- Glaucoma
- Spinal instability
- Hiatal Hernias.
Prior to inverting yourself, make sure to test out the straps and ankle locks several times. Familiarize yourself on how to fasten, release and tighten the straps for safety reasons. With enough preparation, you should find yourself the recipient of many inversion therapy benefits. Always remember to consult with your doctor before trying an inversion table.
