This counteracts gravity (which pulls the spine down as we age) and allows us to relieve compression in your spinal discs (or pinched nerves). Also, if you feel your pain worsens, stop using the spine stretcher immediately. Lumbar Stretchers vs. Inversion Tables When you're inverted, you're at the mercy of the equipment, so safety is a top priority. “Being in an inverted or suspended position certainly puts patients in a vulnerable position and at risk of falls or injuries,” said Lin. “These risks can be heightened in elderly or less coordinated patients. I would recommend consulting with your spine doctor before undergoing inversion therapy.” For people who don’t like the idea of hanging upside down, or doing active stretching with a roller wheel, a horizontal lumbar stretcher bench is the closest thing they’ll find to the traction table at the chiropractor’s clinic. One key feature that sets this stretcher apart from others in the market is the removable massage ball that allows different intensity levels. The ball allows you to adjust the support levels, starting from a comfortable level and gradually progressing to more stretch and extension.

Slowly start to bend and straighten your knees. Listen to your body and work within your limits here. Most research (though limited) has shown spinal decompression to be successful in 71% to 89% of people. You should choose a stretcher that is tough to break. Durability mainly depends on material quality. Therefore, you should invest your money in a stretcher made of highly durable material. Is it comfortable? Health matters: getting every adult active every day. Public Health England. www.gov.uk, published 19 July 2016

Back stretcher prices

Another important factor to consider is the ease of use. The device should be easy to set up and use. It should also be easy to transport so that you can take it with you when you travel. 3) Durability Steel-reinforced height adjuster to set any height you want (compared with the average 3 height levels most ones have) When compression is reduced, healing nutrients and pain-relieving components can flow much better to the area and speed up healing and rehabilitation. Having a combination of sitting, standing and moving over the course of your day is key in helping to keep your spine healthy. T he stretcher has two adjustable arms that can be positioned at different angles, and it also has a cushion that can be removed for extra comfort. The cushion is filled with gel, which helps to provide support and stability.

Hasebe K, Okubo Y, Kaneoka K, Takada K, Suzuki D, Sairyo K. The effect of dynamic stretching on hamstrings flexibility with respect to the spino-pelvic rhythm. J Med Invest. 2016;63(1-2):85-90. doi: 10.2152/jmi.63.85Boukabache, Abderrahmane, Stephen J. Preece, and Nathan Brookes. Prolonged sitting and physical inactivity are associated with limited hip extension: a cross-sectional study. Musculoskeletal Science and Practice 2021; 51:102282 doi: 10.1016/j.msksp.2020.102282

Comfortable cushion at the middle of the stretcher makes the whole stretching experience comfortable. The spine is protected with a foam cover and the sides allow for trigger point pressure while you lie on it. When deflated, you can use it as a lumbar support belt and posture corrector anywhere you are, since it comes with a bag you can use to take it with you.

Best Variety

These facet joints stiffen up as you get older, so this lifting and stretching movement would encourage mobility and prevent stiffness. For example, inversion tables are not safe for people with certain conditions – see all of them here. The 3-level gear adjustment is standard, but the ChiSoft has extra durable acupressure points for increased blood circulation and promoting healing in the area. When you lying on the bench, your ankles are secured in padded cuffs and attached to a pulley system, while your body rests on a bench with a padded headrest. An upgraded feature of this model is its foam cache pad. This addition offers enhanced protection and comfort to sensitive areas along the spine, making it suitable for use in various locations – office chairs, cars, at home, or even in the gym.

The mid section is designed to align the spine and does not cause pressure on it, and the treatment time is only a few minutes a day (most users feel significant relief after only 5 minutes). Be especially gentle and cautious if you have any type of injury or health concern. It’s best to talk with a doctor first before starting any new types of exercise, especially if a recent injury may be the cause of your pain.

4. Chest and hamstring stretch

The unique quality of the ChiSoft is in its chair attachment, which allows you to use it for posture-fixing while you sit. Each inversion table has its height and weight specifications. Most have a height range between 4 feet 11 inches and 6 feet 6 inches and a maximum weight capacity of 350. We recommend following the guidelines for each specific table to prevent a fall while inverted. Additionally, you'll want to consider how the cushions and straps match up to fit your body. Most have adjustable elements to ensure a custom fit. Your own doctor can help you determine if inversion is safe for your specific condition. “Prior to buying and using an inversion table, I would recommend patients be evaluated by a spine doctor (either a physiatrist, pain management doctor, orthopedist, or neurosurgeon),” said Lin. “A pain management doctor may be able to guide patients regarding the specific modalities of therapy that would be best suited for the patient.” The unique benefit is the fact you can take it with you and use it while working, driving, sitting at your desk, and even walking.