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Teeter is a company that offers three models of inversion tables for people living with back pain. This equipment allows an individual to hang upside down while resting their back on a bed. Inversion tables can be suitable for treating sciatica, facet syndrome, and muscle spasms, among other conditions that affect the back.
This article looks at Teeter and the inversion tables that a person can find available for purchase online. It also lists the features to look for before buying an inversion table, the health considerations relating to this equipment, and alternative brands to consider.
Teeter is located in the United States and has been in business since 1981.
Although it is well-known for its inversion therapy equipment, it also sells other fitness equipment and tools on the website. These include:
- elliptical rowers
- massage roller balls
- foam rollers
- equipment mats
- acupressure nodes
A person can choose between paying upfront for their fitness equipment and paying in installments through a finance plan.
At the time of publication, Teeter has an average review rating of 2.33 out of 5 stars on Better Business Bureau (BBB), although this is based on just six reviews. BBB gives Teeter an A+ grade.
Customers who have left negative reviews mention having to cancel their order as they did not receive the product. They also state that the tracking system that Teeter uses was not working.
Positive reviews focus on the products’ quality and Teeter’s customer service. Users have also noted that Teeter’s equipment is affordable and durable.
Teeter offers three models of FitSpine inversion tables, which the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved.
These tables have pressure-reducing foam that locks in the ankles for comfort and security.
Users can access inversion training programs to enhance their experience with their inversion table. The company’s corrective exercise specialists host these through the free Teeter Move app.
The inversion tables also come with:
- acupressure nodes
- a lumbar bridge
- a folding design for easy storage
The company offers:
- free shipping
- a 60-day return guarantee
- a 5-year warranty
Below, we look at each of the three models in more detail.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information is purely research-based.
FitSpine LX9
The FitSpine LX9 inversion table comes with traction handles, an ergonomic frame, and a high gauge, heat-treated seal.
When in use, this inversion table is 81.5 inches (in) long (L) x 27.5 in wide (W) x 87 in high (H).
When folded, the dimensions are 27.5 in (L) x 27.5 in (W) x 68 in (H).
The table weighs 73.6 pounds (lb).
The company claims that the product is suitable for individuals with a height of between 4 feet (ft) 8 in and 6 ft 6 in. Teeter also states that it is suitable for people weighing up to 300 lb.
Other features include a head pillow and a storage caddy for storing fitness accessories.
FitSpine X3
Teeter claims that this inversion table is also suitable for those who are between 4 ft 8 in and 6 ft 6 in. The upper weight limit is 300 lb.
When in use, the dimensions of the table are 81 in (L) x 28.8 in (W) x 86.5 in (H).
When folded, the table is 20 in (L) x 28.8 in (W) x 66 in (H). It weighs 65.8 lb.
Some other features include:
- track handles
- a head pillow
- a precision-balanced three-setting roller hinge
FitSpine X1
The FitSpine X1 inversion table has a weight capacity of up to 300 lb and can accommodate people with a height between 4 ft 8 in and 6 ft 6 in.
When open and in use, the dimensions of the table are 81 in (L) x 28.8 in (W) x 86.5 in (H).
If a person folds the table to store it, they can reduce its size to 20 in (L) x 28.8 in (W) x 66 in (H).
The table weighs 60.3 lb.
The FitSpine X1 also includes the following features:
- support handles
- a spring-loaded T-pin ankle lock system
- an angle tether
- an A-frame design
These are some of the features that a person can look for when buying an inversion table:
- Weight and height capacity: Inversion tables come with a maximum user weight and height. People can find information on the product’s capacity on its web page. A person can use this information to determine whether a particular inversion table will be suitable for them.
- Dimensions: A person can check the product’s dimensions to check whether it is compatible with their workout space.
- Ease of storage: Some inversion tables have a foldable design, which may suit those with limited storage space or small workout areas.
- Cost: Inversion tables are available at different prices depending on the features they include. A person can make a single upfront payment or pay through monthly installments, depending on the finance plans a company offers.
- Ankle system: A person may find an inversion table with an ankle system more comfortable.
- Traction handles: These can enhance a person’s ability to stretch on the table, helping them further reduce back pain.
Inversion tables come with benefits and risks.
Benefits
Gravity puts a lot of pressure on the spine, muscles, and joints, which may lead to a compressed spine over time. The Peconic Bay Medical Center (PBMC) states that inversion therapy can improve a person’s spine health, as it releases spinal compression, which can improve flexibility.
The PBMC also states that hanging upside down on an inversion table can relieve disk and joint pain, as well as reducing the intensity of a person’s back spasms.
A 2014 study notes that the zero gravity position that inversion tables offer can be effective for people who have back problems. It may also reduce the need for surgery for those with sciatica.
Risks and considerations
According to the American Council on Science and Health, inversion therapy may not be suitable for everyone. When a person remains upside down for too long, their heart may begin to beat more slowly. They may also experience an increase in blood pressure and eye pressure.
As a result, people who have high blood pressure, heart disease, or glaucoma should not use inversion tables.
It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, particularly around strapping into the device correctly. A recent study found that inversion tables can cause fall injuries that can injure the spine and that older females with obesity should take particular care.
The authors of the study advise that a person should only use an inversion table for up to 1 minute at a time to prevent falls from it. They also recommend at least 1.5 minutes of recovery time in between uses.
Teeter is one of many companies that sell inversion tables. People may wish to consider other brands that manufacture this type of equipment, such as:
- Innova: This company offers eight inversion tables that support users weighing up to 300 lb. These inversion tables have a heavy duty steel build, and some models come with a heat and massage pad and straps for ankle relief.
- Ironman Fitness: This product is designed to suit tall people and those with a high body weight. Ironman Fitness claims that this inversion table has the highest weight capacity on the market at 350 lb. The product can accommodate people up to 6 ft 6 in tall.
- Health Gear: Health Gear inversion tables come with a heat and vibration massage feature. A person can choose to pay for Health Gear products upfront or in installments.
Teeter is a U.S. company that produces inversion tables to relieve back pain. The prices of Teeter products vary, as each table comes with different features. A person can set up a monthly payment subscription to purchase a Teeter inversion table.
Research suggests that inversion therapy can effectively improve flexibility and reduce spinal cord compression, joint pain, and back spasms.
However, inversion tables may not be safe for everyone, and they can cause falls, which may lead to injuries. People who have existing health conditions or are unsure whether inversion therapy would be safe for them should seek medical advice.