I have a lot of issues with my spine (lower back facet syndrome as well as degenerative disc disease from the cervical vertabrae on down to the lumbar). My back pain can be complex and I have had facet joint shots which only work so much. I also use a Teeter Hang-ups
Teeter EP-950 Inversion Table Complete Package at 60 degrees to get a decompression of my spine. I was curious to try this and see how well it would do comparatively.
I was pleasantly surprised. This DEFINITELY targets the lower back only (lumbar and sacrum). You will not get relief from thoracic (mid-back) or neck pain so you shouldn't expect that. That said, I put the SPINAL STRETCH to the test and here are my findings.
When you look at it, you may see something akin to a strange-looking torture device from the middle-ages. :) It isn't, so never fear. Once you get over that and figure out that the device is very well designed you will actually find an impressive and very portable traction machine. The SPINAL STRETCH is so well made and attention is given to every detail. I appreciate that very much when I am dealing with medical equipment. The SS comes with it's own storage bag and a DVD which explains exactly how to use it (using the ratchet mechanism and preparing for next use). The use of the system is very straight forward but it IS important that the user follows the proper ratcheting release instructions to free up the tension.
If I had one thing that I would mention about this system, it's that on the back of the waist belt I noticed a satin material versus the ribbed material used on the chest belt. I found that I slid a little more on carpet than I would have liked to and wondered why the SPINAL STRETCH was made with this satin backing versus the ribbed material used on the chest belt? Once looking at the item again and testing it out I thought that perhaps this could be used as an easy safety mechanism (to easily slide forward if the tension feels like it is too much).
It's a really beautifully well-made machine. Does it do as much as an inversion table? No, but it is meant to be a bit more gentle. The inventor is correct, inversion tables are not very attractive and they DO take up space. This offers a very, gentle pull on the lower back that actually feels very good. It's like taking a day of gravity off your lower back. Stretching with knees bent felt really, really relaxing. It feels safe, comfortable and is made very, very well. I was impressed more than I expected to be both with manufacture and performance. Plus, it's completely portable and stows easily.
A great option for people that don't have serious back issues. Take it slowly and enjoy a nice stretch. I'll look forward to using this when I want a gentle stretch versus hanging.
I love it. 5 stars.
UPDATE: I received a comment from Spinal Stretch about the satin material and here is the response which is enlightening
Diana,
"Spinal Stretch indeed has ribbed material on the chest belt and smooth material on the waist belt, and for good reason.
The smooth waist belt surface allows your lumbar region (low back) to stretch to the greatest extent possible, while the ribbed chest belt helps keep your thoracic (upper back) region anchored to the floor.
The combination of smooth and ribbed surfaces allows for maximum separation of the lumbar discs to promote lumbar disc rehydration.
If both belts had ribbed surfaces the product would not work as well."