10 Best Inversion Tables (2024 Updated) For Back Pain

Here's how we chose the best inversion tables:

Setup and Ease of Use

Before diving into the specifics, we started with the basics. How easy was it to assemble each inversion table? We timed the setup process for each model and noted any challenges or ambiguities in the instructions.

Once assembled, we evaluated the user-friendliness of each table, checking how straightforward it was to adjust settings and achieve the desired inversion angle.

Comfort and Ergonomics

An inversion table is of little use if it's uncomfortable. Our team personally tried out each table, assessing the padding, ankle supports, and overall ergonomics.

We paid special attention to how the tables felt during extended sessions, as comfort over time is crucial.

Safety Features

We rigorously tested the security of ankle locks, the reliability of safety straps, and the sturdiness of handrails.

Each table was also checked for any wobbling or instability during use.

Performance and Effectiveness

Beyond the features and comfort, does the table do its job? Our team, including members with varying degrees of back issues, used the tables over several weeks.

We gauged the relief and benefits each table provided, ensuring they delivered on their therapeutic promises.

Durability and Build Quality

We didn't just rely on our short-term tests. By simulating wear and tear and examining user reviews, we assessed the longevity of each table. High-quality materials and solid construction were key indicators of a table's durability.

All of our recommendations above come with minimum weight support to handle a 300-pound person.

If you weigh in significantly under that, then weight limits shouldn’t be an issue for you.

But if you weigh close to this range, then I would suggest investing in an inversion therapy table that doesn’t just about cover your weight.

It’s always best not to push these devices to the limit when doing physical therapy.

I have had one or two scary incidences with inversion equipment, which happens mainly down to lack of safety features [1].

I’ve had a heat and massage pad get too hot, and by the time I managed to get upright again, I had a bit of a burn on my back. On another occasion, the balance was off, and I actually had to pull myself up with force, which ended up adding to my neck pain.

“The safety strap prevents you from leaning back too far and getting into a position that makes it hard or painful to turn yourself upright.”

 

- Marshfield Clinic Health System

Here's which safety features to look for:

1. Sturdy Construction: Ensure the table is made of high-quality, durable materials, typically heavy-duty steel, to prevent any risk of collapsing or tipping over during use.
2. Secure Ankle Locking Systems: A good inversion table will have a reliable and comfortable ankle locking system. This ensures you're securely fastened and minimizes the risk of slipping or falling.
3. Safety Straps or Harnesses: These allow you to control the angle of inversion and prevent you from over-inverting. They also act as a safety catch if anything goes wrong.
4. Non-Skid Floor Stabilizers: These prevent the table from moving or sliding during use, ensuring stability.
5. Padded Backrest and Handrails: A padded backrest provides comfort, while handrails offer additional support and control during inversion.
6. Easy-to-Reach Control Levers: These allow for smooth and safe operation, especially when returning to an upright position.
7. Locking Mechanisms: Some tables come with locking mechanisms that ensure the table remains in place during use.
8. Curved Handrails: These can provide additional safety by allowing you to easily grip and control your inversion angle.
9. Covered Hinges and Pivot Points: This prevents fingers or other body parts from getting pinched during the inversion process.

When you’re using an inversion table, you’ll need to gradually change the angle to better deal with certain parts of your body.

For example, you might not need to fully invert to deal with neck pain.

But, according to an article on the Health Central website, lower back pain from a pinched nerve might be relieved only when you’re in an upside-down position [2].

“Unlike antigravity boots used with an inversion rack, an adjustable inversion table offers the flexibility to choose the most comfortable angle.”

 

- Lali Sekhon, MD

The more angles you have to choose from, the more flexibility you might have to better deal with your back pain.

Some of these inversion therapy tables can be very large, and we did see a few comments online where people ended up having some trouble.

In one case, a user couldn’t fully invert because his feet would hit the ceiling.

So, check the dimensions we listed above, add a few extra inches, and measure the area where you plan to set it up.

To use the best inversion tables for back pain relief properly, you need to figure out the inversion position you’ll need for your specific problem.

The best thing to do is check with a physiotherapist or chiropractor, but the lower down the pain is, the more you may want to invert.

According to a study published on Research Gate, with a more vertical position, you might be in a better position to decompress your spine and reduce the pressure you feel in certain areas [3].

You can also build up some back muscles without weights using these resistance band exercises.

Setting a price range is always a good idea, as you might quickly get distracted with fancy features that cost a lot of money but may not help your back pain as much.

Warranties are also important, and you’ll find some variations between companies.

Some of the best inversion tables we found provided a 1-year warranty, and along with a sturdy frame, those might be the models to shortlist for your choice.

7. Additional Features

While the primary purpose of an inversion table is to provide relief through spinal decompression, many models come equipped with additional features to enhance the therapeutic experience.

Some tables offer heat and massage functions, targeting specific pain points and providing added relaxation. Others might include acupressure nodes, lumbar support, or even advanced adjustability features.

When choosing a table, consider these additional features based on your specific needs and preferences.

From my personal journey with back pain, the Innova ITX Inversion Table. stood out as a clear winner. Every time I used it, I felt relief and ease.

Its weight limit suited me perfectly, and its user-friendly design meant I could set it up solo. I also noticed many positive reviews online, especially about the Ironman inversion table.

Plus, its compact design meant I didn't have to wrestle with it when storing.