Inversion
Inversion is an often-overlooked solution to a problem. Regarding movement, physically inverting yourself can be a very useful way of solving a movement related problem. Inversion tables come to mind, with their intention being to reduce low back pain by changing the direction of gravity and decompressing the spine. Not only is that possible, but there are a host of other potentialities that can become available as spaces open up and focal compression is reduced.
The inverted position has come up quite a bit recently in my patient interactions. From issues such as headaches and neck pain to pelvic and knee pain. The popular idea is fairly straight forward in that if we off-load tissues by reversing gravity they can decompress. Decompression equates to pain reduction in this model. I do not entirely disagree, however there are other effects that may aid in reducing symptoms.
Walking is the primary means by which we propel ourselves in the world, and I dare to say that the principles of walking are the only way in which we move. When we walk our center of gravity shifts, and the joints in our body change their orientation in response. Our anatomical organization lends itself to being biased in one direction, pushing us forward. In order to move forward however, our center of gravity must first move backward, requiring joint position changes. Inverted positions, whether via table or exercise, actually promote this shift backward. It off-loads body regions that tend to be compressed by the verticality of gravity, allowing them to change position and accommodate the shift in center of gravity.
Gravity works and it is a principle of the natural world that facilitates our ability to maneuver in daily life. We can harness the characteristics of gravity to work in our favor and inversion is one way we can do so. Every move we make requires a weight shift and if we can make the shift with greater ease this tends to reduce focal compression and make life a heck of a lot easier.
Austin Ulrich, Physical Therapist
