Inversion is one of the most effective natural remedies for back pain, especially conditions like sciatica, bulged disc and pinched nerve. It works by allowing your body to heal and regenerate itself.
In a UK medical study 77% of patients with bulged disc who were scheduled for surgery, were able to cancel it because inversion solved the problem. (Newcastle University, 2007).
A healthy spine acts as a spring, and depends on healthy discs. The discs are little cushions that separate the vertebrae and hold them in place. They are thick and flexible, like resilient moist sponges.
Gravity forces the vertebrae to put pressure on discs, which squeezes out moisture. Constant pressure over time makes them stiff and inflexible. Some sports, like golf, increase stress on the spine and can lead to back pain. Inversion alleviates the problem, and keeps you performing at higher levels for longer.
Inversion works by reversing the effects of gravity and compression. As the spine gently extends, spaces between the vertebrae widen and give discs space to absorb moisture. Like sponges, they expand and regenerate. A medical study has recorded benefit within the first 10 seconds, which means your body responds immediately. Used correctly, pain relief is sometimes instant, and regular inversion maintains the effect. It’s quick and easy to do in a few minutes, or even seconds.
It also relaxes muscles and promotes circulation.
Astronauts in space gain up to 5 cm in height as discs regenerate. Inverting for 3 – 5 minutes a day has the same effect. Starting out slowly and doing intermittent traction give the best results for back pain, and this means alternating above and below the horizontal.
