Nearly every physical activity involves some form of compression
of the spine. The compressive effect of gravity is compounded by
activities such as running, weightlifting, aerobics, skiing,
biking, and golf, which can exact an incredible toll on the
spine, discs, and back muscles. If we perform our daily
activities in the wrong way we can create skeletal
misalignments. Most often these misalignments are nominal and
will readily correct themselves given the opportunity. Inversion
with movement (such as side-to-side bends, back arches, and a
partial sit-up or two) provides that opportunity. One-sided
activities can be particularly troublesome for the athlete for
two reasons: The body will tend to over compensate for the
strong-side muscle groups, pulling the spine out of alignment,
and one-sided activities usually involve rotation of the spine,
often under incredible loads. Examples of these activities are
golf, water skiing, tennis, bowling, racquetball, and baseball.
Inversion after physical activity may hel