Our inversion table reviews will give you an in-depth look at the leading models on the market. Because most models of inversion tables look very similar, choosing the best inversion table can be a real challenge. But there are ways to tell each model apart and determine which one can provide the type of inversion therapy you need, and which model simply isn’t up to the task.
So, what factors should you consider when you’re shopping for the right inversion table?
An inversion table can be a great way to pull toxins from the spine, decompress the spine, and relieve upper and lower back pain. But in order to get the most out of inversion therapy, you need to find a table that will maximize these benefits.
Not all inversion tables are created equal. Some are more comfortable, durable, and just plain better than others.
What is Inversion Therapy?
Inverting the body has been done for decades. Inversion is used as a way to counteract the effects of gravity. Studies conducted in the late 1970s showed that inversion therapy worked to reduce muscle activity while lengthening the spine. Based on these findings, many doctors believe that inversion therapy is an effective way to relieve back pain, nerve compression, and painful muscle spasms. Many doctors and physical therapists that recommend this type of pain relief treatment believe that it can also help to decompress the spinal discs. With consistent use, common symptoms associated with spinal disc degeneration, spinal stenosis, and disc herniations can improve over time.
An Effective Home Treatment
The best part of inversion therapy is the fact that these tables are now sold by many leading manufacturers at affordable prices, so treatment can be completed at home, and on a daily basis. This type of treatment access can speed up the recovery rate for certain conditions and can be a great alternative to prescribed pain medication.
Fine-Tuning Inversion Therapy
Most people have found that one hundred percent inversion is too painful and intense, which is why most people will invert at a sixty-degree angle. Despite the fact that this is a less severe degree of inversion it’s still said to be highly effective.
However, inversion therapy isn’t for everyone. If you have circulatory issues or heart problems, you must meet with your doctor to discuss inversion therapy before you hit that buy now button.
For some, hanging upside down can place a great deal of pressure and stress on the skeletal and circulatory systems. However, the potential upsides to treatment and counteracting the effects of gravity can result in less joint pain, minimized spinal disc pain, and a reduction in muscle spasms.
Inversion Therapy at Home
If you decide to try inversion therapy, most physicians recommend starting off slow. When you first begin treatment, most experts recommend beginning with just a fifteen-degree inversion, for a period of three to five minutes.
How We Chose the Leading Inversion Tables
Because it’s so difficult to determine the important differences from model to model with inversion tables, we took our time when we reviewed each model, searching for features and specs that really matter.
A Higher Max Weight Limit
We started off by checking the user max weight limit. Each model we reviewed features at least the standard three hundred pounds max weight. Lower priced models tend to offer a max weight ranging from two hundred to two hundred and fifty pounds. A higher max weight means a more durable, stable inversion table, which is exactly what you want.
A Foldable Design
We chose to review foldable designs because these are the tables that are in high demand. Consumers don’t want a large fixed inversion table sitting in the middle of their living room. Foldable models can quickly break down into a nice compact package and can be stored when not in use.
Independent Inversion
We also paid close attention to tables with safety handles. Tables without safety handles will require you to use a spotter to help you invert and return to an upright position once treatment is over. Most buyers prefer tables that allow them to invert independently because they’re more convenient.
Innovative Features
We also looked for tables that feature some great extras such as infrared heat technology, ergonomic backrests and handles, and storage pockets that allow you to keep your phone and other personal items close at hand.
Leading Models
We chose the best of the best. We’re confident that you’ll find the perfect inversion table for you based on your needs, the available space in the home, and your budget.
Now, we’ll start off with our leading model, one produced by Ironman. Ironman is a well-known name in inversion therapy, mainly because they produce innovative top of the line tables that are usually equipped with some great features. Their latest model, the 4000 uses infrared technology, which works to make inversion therapy even more effective.
So, let’s begin with a closer look at this best-selling product.
Comparison Chart
| Product | Inversion Angles | User Max Weight | Rating | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ironman IFT 4000 Infrared Therapy Inversion Table  Check Price | 3 | 300 lbs | 5 | $$$$$ |
| Teeter EP-960 LTD Inversion Table  Check Price | 3 | 300lbs | 4.5 | $$$$ |
| Ironman iControl 600 Inversion Table  Check Price | Unlimited | 300lbs | 4.5 | $$$ |
| Health Mark Inversion Table  Check Price | 5 | 300lbs | 4 | $$$ |
| Innova Fitness ITX9800 Inversion Therapy Table  Check Price | 5 | 300lbs | 4 | $ |
Best Inversion Table-Ironman IFT 4000 Infrared Therapy Inversion Table
Our Rating:
The IFT 4000 by Ironman is a leading inversion table that’s packed with some great features including an innovative ankle support system and infrared heat technology. The heating elements are built right into the table’s backrest and work to relieve muscle tension and pain, making inversion therapy more effective. This is one of Ironman’s top-selling tables for a number of reasons. Not only is this model a great choice for people who suffer from chronic back pain, but the addition of the infrared heat technology makes this table the perfect choice for weightlifters and athletes who want to treat or prevent muscle soreness.
Most Durable Inversion Table-Teeter EP960 LTD Inversion Table
Our Rating:
Teeter is another leader in the industry. They’re constantly coming out with new ways to improve the inversion therapy experience. Their latest model, the EP 960, is one of the most comfortable inversion tables on the market.
This is another popular model that can be used for both back pain management or killer core workouts.
From the table’s thick, supportive backrest, to the durable, heavy-gauge steel frame, this table is the whole package.
Thanks to the innovative design, the user can easily and independently invert, choosing from one of the table’s preset inversion angles.
Top Choice for Core Workouts-Ironman iControl 600 Weight Extended Disk Brake System Inversion Table
Our Rating:
The iControl 600 is another one of Ironman’s top-selling inversion tables. Incredibly durable, and comfortable to boot, this table features a thick layer of ribbed foam on the table’s surface, which is made out of highly breathable material for improved air circulation. This model comes complete with a stretching bar, extra-long safety handle for independent inversion, and a heavy-duty oval-shaped frame for increased durability.
Health Mark IVO18660 Pro Inversion Therapy Table
Our Rating:
This inversion table by Health Mark doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles some people are looking for in an inversion therapy table. Instead, the manufacturer focused more on stability and comfort. This model received plenty of positive feedback from users in regard to ease of use, comfort, and durability. This table is offered at a reasonable price and features a stable design, an easy to use ankle strap system and safety handle. If you’re looking for a basic inversion table that won’t let you down, then this model by Health Mark is the perfect match.
Budget-Friendly-Innova Fitness ITX9800 Inversion Therapy Table
Our Rating:
The ITX9800 by Innova Fitness is designed with ease of use in mind. This is a great choice for the beginner who’s totally new to inversion therapy.
It’s also a great choice if you’re looking for a stable inversion table for your home core workouts or stretches.
Solidly built, this model features a wide range of preset inversion angles that make inverting fast and simple. The ergonomic safety handles will allow you to gently, gradually invert and safely return to an upright position, independently.
Inversion Table Buyer’s Guide
Obviously, safety and durability will be the two main factors you’ll focus on when shopping for a new inversion table. If you’re not sure the model you’re interested in is safe, we recommend reading inversion table reviews to find out how each model performed and what you can expect in terms of quality and comfort.
Comfort
This applies both to the ankle locking system and the surface of the table. Since you’ll be suspended upside down by your ankles, the ankle locking system must be comfortable, secure, and supportive. An ankle locking system that’s uncomfortable to use is the main reason why people tend to give up on inversion therapy. The same applies to the surface of the table. The table should have medium thick padding, covered by durable material that’s odor, tear, and sweat resistant.
Special Features
Some models of inversion tables will offer more specialized features than others. These are the tables that come with a hefty price tag, but they’re usually also the tables that provide more effective, comfortable treatment. Look for a model that uses heat treated steel, and hinges that lock automatically in order to prevent separation from the base and bed during treatment.
Controlled Inversion Therapy
Does the inversion table you’re interested in allow you to control the degree of inversion? Most models now offer this feature, but some lower priced models do not.
When you begin treatment, you must work your way slowly up to ninety-degrees. Otherwise you can suffer from lightheadedness, nausea, or dizziness. A table that features controllable inversion will allow you to slowly invert yourself, without the help of a second person. This way, you won’t have to depend on someone else to help you with your therapy. Controlled inversion is usually done with the aid of a pole system that allows you to gradually adjust the degree of inversion, so you can work your way up to total inversion at your own pace.
Frame
Frame quality will be another factor to consider. Since you’re putting all of your body weight on the table, you want to make sure it won’t give out or break while you’re using it. You also need to ensure that the frame can handle regular use.
Look for an inversion table with non-skid floor protectors and a steel frame that’s designed to withstand heavy use. Floor protectors will prevent the table from moving during use and will also protect your floors from damage.
User Weight Capacity
While you’re inspecting the table’s frame, make sure you take a look at the max user weight the table can handle. Most tables will have a max weight of two to three hundred pounds.
Foldable and Fixed Inversion Tables
While a large frame is crucial for durability and stability, these tables tend to take up a lot of floor space, which can be a major concern if you don’t have much room at home to work with.
There are stationary and portable models available. A stationary table is obviously the more durable choice, but these tables are often best suited for dedicated spaces. A foldable inversion table will have a lower max weight and doesn’t offer the same type of stability as a fixed model, but they can be the perfect solution if you don’t have much space in the home and you’re in need of an inversion table you can store when not in use.
Infrared Inversion Tables
One of the best ways to promote healing and soothe injured and sore back muscles is using heat treatment. Models that use infrared heat combine heat with inversion table benefits in order to increase blood flow and release tension in muscle tissue. Inversion tables that are equipped with infrared technology can also be helpful for people with muscle strains or inflammation because the infrared rays can penetrate deep into muscle tissue and soothe these injured areas.
Is Inversion Therapy Right for Me?
Inversion therapy is more popular than ever. This type of home treatment gives users immediate access to beneficial therapy treatments that can provide immediate results. The fact that manufacturers now make these tables more affordable than ever is one of the reasons why so many people have taken an interest in this type of convenient home therapy option.
Of course, inversion therapy will not work for everyone. Ultimately, treatment success can depend on how frequently you use the table, how long, and the underlying cause of your back pain.
Before you start inversion therapy, consult with your physician, especially if you have a severe injury such as a herniated disc, bulging disc, or a hernia. In some people, inversion therapy can aggravate these conditions.
In general, inversion therapy is a very effective, natural treatment that can help to relieve upper and lower back pain.
The inversion table can also be used during a workout to provide more challenging core exercises that offer some pretty impressive results.
If you’re searching for an all-natural way to treat your back pain and you’re tired of relying on medication to provide the relief you need, then an inversion table can be a great investment.
Why it’s Important to Meet with Your Physician Prior to Trying Inversion Therapy
As you know by now, the goal of inversion therapy is to reverse the effects of gravity on the spine in order to reduce pain caused by spinal disc compression. When you participate in inversion therapy treatment your ankles will be secured as your body is held in a straight position. While there are many benefits of inversion therapy, there are a few things you need to consider before you decide to give it a try.
- Even if you find treatment helpful, the effects do not last for most people. Treatment is supposed to stretch the spine, basically relieving the pressure on the spinal nerves by increasing the space between the vertebrae. When inverted, most people feel much better, almost immediately. However, there have been no studies that have conclusively proven that inversion therapy can provide long-term results.
- If you’ve been suffering with chronic back pain for months but have not seen your physician to determine the root cause, you may end up exacerbating the condition with inversion therapy. If you don’t know why you’re in pain in the first place, trying inversion therapy can work against you.
- Most people who are new to inversion therapy overdo it. Beginners typically stay inverted too long or they invert the table to a severe degree. All of the inversion tables we have reviewed are adjustable, which means you don’t have to fully invert yourself. Staying on the table for too long or inverting too far can cause severe muscle pain, leaving you in more pain than you were in before you started treatment. Many people will not even experience the increased pain until the next day, which can make it even more difficult to determine when you’ve been inverted for too long.
- Additionally, some people will find inversion therapy comfortable right off the bat. This has a lot to do with the quality of the inversion table. Before you buy, read inversion table reviews to find out how each model rated with buyers in regard to comfort. The ankle support system is the biggest culprit when it comes to uncomfortable treatment.
- As we briefly mentioned earlier, inversion therapy can also have a negative effect on your blood pressure. When you hang upside down, the heart rate slows and blood pressure increases. This can put too much stress on the circulatory system which can be a major issue for patients who take blood thinners, have hypertension, or a history of high blood pressure.
- Treatment can potentially make a pre-existing condition worse. Being inverted can put too much pressure on the inner ear and the eyes. If you have glaucoma, retinal detachment, or an inner ear problem, then therapy can make it worse. If you have a hernia, osteoporosis, a fracture, or a heart condition, you should avoid inversion therapy.
The best inversion table can provide the relief you desperately need if you’re currently suffering from back pain, but you must make sure you’re using the table correctly. If you’re not sure what’s causing your pain, meet with your physician who can assess your condition and determine whether or not inversion therapy will be effective for you.
Inversion Tables in the Fitness World
Did you know there are inversion table exercises that you can do for a killer core workout? Many gym goers purchase an inversion table for a couple of reasons. First, inversion tables can make a tough ab workout even more challenging. In the fitness world, this is a good thing. The more challenging a workout, the better the results. So, if you want an effective way to work on your abs and other core muscles, an inversion table can be a great tool that can help you reach your fitness goals, so you can get that six pack you’ve always wanted.
The other reason people who work out buy an inversion table is because it helps to reduce the pain associated with DOMS, or delayed onset muscle soreness. Just a few minutes of inversion therapy after a tough workout, like leg day can help to speed up the recovery process and reduce muscle soreness the next day.
We hope our inversion tables buyer’s guide has educated you on the features you should look for before you buy, how inversion therapy works, and the many benefits you’ll enjoy from this all-natural treatment.
Our inversion table reviews will give you an inside look at some of the best-selling tables currently on the market. We’re confident that you’ll find the perfect model in our top five that will have you on your way to a faster recovery.
