Who should not use an inversion table

Why it matters

Hanging upside down changes your body in ways that matter for some people. WebMD says inversion tables cause your heartbeat to slow and your blood pressure to rise, and that you will feel the pressure in your eyes go up. Cleveland Clinic says research shows inversion therapy can raise pressure in your skull, and that a sudden increase "can cause significant damage and could even be fatal". Cleveland Clinic's specialist adds that inversion therapy isn't safe for everyone.

Teeter's owner's manuals go further: "DO NOT use the equipment without a licensed physician's approval." They add that their list of conditions "is not an exhaustive list, it is intended only for reference."

Talk to your doctor before you try one if you have, or might have...

• High blood pressure
• Heart or circulation problems
• A history of stroke or transient ischemic attack, or a brain injury
• Glaucoma, retinal detachment or other eye conditions
• Middle or inner ear problems
• Pregnancy
• A hernia, including a hiatal hernia, or severe acid reflux
• Recent surgery, a spinal injury, or recent or unhealed fractures
• Bone or joint problems, such as osteoporosis or acutely swollen joints
• Obesity (Teeter lists extreme obesity)
• Taking blood thinners or other anticoagulants, or medicines that cause drowsiness or disorientation (ask your doctor or pharmacist)

The lists in these sources overlap but are not identical. If anything here could apply to you, or you are not sure, ask first.

Stop and get medical help if...

• You feel pain while inverted.
• You feel light-headed or dizzy.

Teeter's manuals say to return to upright immediately in either case, and not to continue using the table. If symptoms do not settle once you are upright, or you are worried, get medical advice. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.

Check the limits and rules

• Teeter's manuals say not to use its tables if you are over 6 ft 6 in (198 cm) or over 300 lb (136 kg), because the structure could fail or your head or neck could reach the floor. Other makers set their own limits. Check yours.
• Teeter's manuals say not to let children use the table.
• Do not use it under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication that may cause drowsiness or disorientation.

How to start carefully

1. Talk to your doctor first. Cleveland Clinic suggests trying one under a physical therapist's guidance before buying.
2. Read the full manual.
3. Go slowly. Teeter says to start at a modest angle (20 to 30 degrees on its scale) and short sessions of 1 to 2 minutes. See what angle and how long.
4. Have someone nearby the first few times. Teeter's manuals say new users need a spotter.
5. Check your weight and height against the limits.
6. Check the ankle lock every time. Teeter says to hear, feel and see that it is fully engaged.
7. Come up slowly and do not sit up or lift your head to return upright.

More detail is in how to use an inversion table safely.