Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

Is there a risk in using the SomaTrac too much? TOP

Many people think that, if a little is good then more should be better!! Exercise, stretching and inversion are beneficial when done frequently, but in moderation. Continuous passive motion (CPM) has been used as a way to improve circulation and blood flow to body parts and for exercise for many years. As little as ten minutes of CPM, passive stretching and inversion twice daily can provide relaxation, toning and pain relief.

Will my insurance cover it? TOP

Insurance does not routinely cover the SomaTrac.

Are there any other uses the SomaTrac can be used for? TOP

Besides back pain relief, exercise, stretching and CPM (continuous passive motion) the SomaTrac is an ideal table for massage. Facials in the inverted position or low back massage in the stretched position can bring a new level of effectiveness.

Who can benefit most from the SomaTrac? TOP

Anyone who wants to just feel revitalization and renewed feeling of relaxation can benefit from the SomaTrac. Although most men and women purchase the SomaTrac for back pain relief, there are many other comfort features. A slightly elevated position of the upper torso, while simultaneously decompressing, can accommodate those persons unable to invert more than a few degrees. The contoured foam comfort cushion can be placed at the appropriate position to meet your individual height requirements. Additionally, you may choose to enjoy the vibrating feature of the comfort cushion while in the horizontal or/and decompressed plane.

I'm small, my husband and son are both tall... is it adjustable to height? TOP

The SomaTrac can fit men and women of all ages, sizes and shapes. From 4'11"to 6"7" the Somatrac is adjustable to virtually every height.

Is there a weight limit? TOP

The SomaTrac weight limit is three hundred (300 lbs) pounds.

How many times a day should I use the SomaTrac? For how long? TOP

The benefit of any home self help is that you decide how frequent and for how long the usage should be. Most SomaTrac users have suggested once or twice daily for 10 to 15 minutes gives them the best results.

Should I consult with my medical doctor or chiropractor before I start using the SomaTrac on my own? TOP

As with any exercise or activity you should consult with your personal physician before starting.

Does it come with a user manual or video? TOP

Each SomaTrac comes with a user's manual, assembly manual and video instruction.

What is it made of? TOP

The SomaTrac is made of solid state, heavy grade steel and laser cut parts that have been precision constructed to provide many years of use.

Is there a warranty? TOP

The warranty is a lifetime on the steel, five years on the constructed parts and one year on the actuators.

Is there an age restriction? TOP

The Somatrac should not be used by persons under the age of eighteen (18) and never without the supervision of another adult.

I have no injuries (that I am aware of) would it still be a good idea to use the SomaTrac?TOP

SomaTrac can be used by men and women who want to feel better and unload their spines for relaxation purposes. The cumulative effect of gravity is compression. It simply can't be avoided. The cumulative effect of unloading, stretching and exercise is decompression. Frequent rehydration and spinal longevity type exercises can't prevent accidents or injuries, but it may make you less susceptible to minor aches and pains.

Are there any circumstances that someone should not use a SomaTrac? TOP

If you have a question or are unsure if you should use your SomaTrac, please review the contraindications and consult with your chiropractor, osteopath or family doctor.

Are there any other products I can use with the SomaTrac that would increase the effects of SomaTrac? TOP

There are several products available from SomaTrac. Please refer to the Products Section of this website.

Can I buy a SomaTrac at a store? TOP

SomaTrac is available at most stores that specialize in Back or Comfort products, Fitness/Exercise equipment or at Sports and Outdoor Stores. Check with our Store Locator Search.

Is there anywhere I can test the SomaTrac? TOP

You can visit any store on our store locator site to test the SomaTrac.

If I'm pregnant, can I still use the SomaTrac TOP

While many women who are pregnant experience back pain their physicians may instruct them to stay active and fit. Pregnancy is a normal state and not an illness. However, you should not use your SomaTrac during pregnancy without first discussing with your doctor.

Are you sure I will not get stuck and can't get back to an upright position? TOP

The hand control has a wrist band attachment that should be worn at all times while operating the SomaTrac. NEVER - invert without the wrist strap. There is a danger of dropping the hand controller while inverted (if the wrist strap is not used), therefore, be sure another adult is in visual or auditory range in case of emergency and never engage the inversion button without the controller/wrist strip securely in place around your wrist. Refer to your owners manual for instructions on disembarking in the event of power outage in your home.

What if I don't like it after I purchase it? TOP

The SomaTrac comes with a thirty day money back guarantee. Please see warranty and thirty day guarantee on material list packing slip.

Can my kids use it too? TOP

Children are not recommended users. Somatrac is NOT a toy. Caution should be used, as with any moving object, device or machinery, to keep all hands, fingers and limbs away from moving parts. Do not allow children or infants to crawl around or come near the SomaTrac at ANY TIME. Unplug and disconnect the power when not in use. Accidental pushing of the buttons by a child or infant or operating while an infant or child is in the near vicinity may result in severe injury or DEATH.

Or my aging parents? TOP

Men and women that are over sixty should be supervised. Operation of SomaTrac by anyone with a history of stroke or dementia is contraindicated. (See Contraindications.)

Do I have to wear special clothing or special shoes when I use it? TOP

Comfortable clothing and socks are recommended. Dresses, shoes, belts and articles in pockets should be removed before use.

Do I need to stretch first? TOP

Part of the benefit of the SomaTrac is stretching. Healthy individuals may want to discuss additional stretching exercises with their trainer or doctor.

Do I need my Doctors permission before ordering? TOP

SomaTrac is sold only as a home unit for continuous passive movement (CPM), stretching/decompression, exercise and relief of back pain and does not require permission from a doctor for use. However, as with any program or exercise activity you should consult your physician prior to starting the program.

Is it hard to learn how to use it? TOP

SomaTrac is as easy as "pushing a button". You will likely need some time to locate and perfect your positioning. Each time you use your SomaTrac you will undoubtedly become more comfortable and recognize more options. On some days you may wish to lay face down and remain horizontal. On other days you may wish to invert but use the contoured foam comfort cushion to allow you to slightly be more upright. Vibration can be turned on or off at any angle. Please refer to users manual for pictures of various options.

Will it help me look younger? TOP

Some people have claimed that daily use of inversion keeps them looking younger. In addition to inversion most people can acquire a more "youthful look" by quitting smoking and eliminating alcohol (except in the case where your doctor has recommended red wine.)

How long do I have to invert to make a difference in helping my spine? TOP

Most people with back pain can feel the relief almost immediately. For long term results and to make the most notable difference in your spine/back/joints use daily for three to six months. Daily or every other day for 10 - 15 minutes may sustain the effect. Individual results may vary.

To what degree should I invert? TOP

The answer depends on the individual. In the beginning everyone starts in a horizontal position, before any inversion is applied.  At first, a mild angle (approximately 5-10 degrees beyond horizontal) can be applied until you become comfortable with the operation of the table and are able to completely relax. At 10 - 15 degrees, your muscles and joints begin to experience mild stretching while benefiting from stimulated circulation and improved oxygen flow to the head, and reducing the gravitational effects on internal organs.  At 15 - 20 degrees, you will begin to experience a new level of total body unloading as you relax, your spine approaches a state of decompression unattainable in the horizontal position.  At 20 - 30 degrees, you have the position option of prone(face-down), supine(face-up), or horizontal by using the SomaTrac comfort cushion.