[Dr. Doolittle]

Calling all people with back problems--or more specifically, those who utilize spinal decompression!

I know there are a variety of these out there, but the quality (and price point) varies widely. I go to the chiropractor every few weeks and use their fancy DTS machine, but it's $60 per 20 minute decompression session (not including the adjustment), and OF COURSE insurance doesn't cover it. It feels wonderful, but I could probably go longer between visits if I had a table at home (I borrowed one from a friend last year for a couple of weeks, and loved it.)

TIA for any suggestions!

[Synrgystyk]

Check Craigslist. I often see them posted there in the $100 range.

Lorree

[LexInVA]

Seriously, there's a bunch of them on DC Craigslist right now for not much at all.

[Dr. Doolittle]

Yes, I was thinking Craigslist (though I am in the Stone Age, and have never actually *used* it! ) I need to force myself into the 21st Century, I guess!

Any recommendations on best brands or types for the money? I know most of them are fairly similar in design, but there are personal preferences among users...

[LexInVA]

I don't know of anyone who could tell you what a good inversion table is. It seems like a straightforward and uncomplex device with a universal design. Then again, there probably is someone making a luxury model with plush cushioning, built-in speakers, a flip-down TV, and a plug for your iDevice or MP3 player.

[fanfayre]

The one I have is a Hang-Ups brand. It has been fitted with a small motor to create vibration so the decompression is enhanced.

[Alagirl]

The one I have is a Hang-Ups brand. It has been fitted with a small motor to create vibration so the decompression is expanded.

fancy....


I got one sitting around here, I think we bought it from walmart, not sure.
I seem to remember the puppy was 150 bucks new, it's heavy duty, but with no thrills, you wedge your feet in, buckle up and swing on over...

[Synrgystyk]

I've used a few different brands and haven't found one to be tons better than another. Just as an FYI, make sure that whatever one you get has the strap at the bottom to control the angle of inversion; you don't need to go completely upside down/vertical to get the benefit. (Don't remember the best "most therapeutic" angle, but I can ask my muscle therapy guy. I think it *might* be 50 degrees....)

Lorree

[naters]

So... Do they work?

[fanfayre]

So... Do they work?

Did/does for me! 8 minutes at a time, inverted to the 50degrees mentioned above, and the motor vibration set to 6.5g. I also have my back wedged to form the proper spinal shape while I'm tabling.

[Dr. Doolittle]

Thanks, fanfayre! I have a machine I use called "Back to Life" which provides gentle traction (you lie on the floor and put your legs over it), so this type of inversion table sounds ideal, I will check it out