Intersegmental Traction Therapy in Grand Rapids
Intersegmental Traction Therapy in Grand Rapids
Intersegmental Traction Therapy is a type of chiropractic care that uses a specialized machine to apply gentle traction forces to the spine. This therapy is often used to relieve back pain and improve spinal range of motion. Intersegmental traction therapy can be an effective treatment for many different types of musculoskeletal conditions.
We use this therapy as part of our comprehensive approach to chiropractic care. Intersegmental traction therapy can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other therapies, such as spinal manipulation, massage, and exercise.
Benefits of intersegmental traction therapy
Improves circulation of nutrients into spinal discs
Eases muscle tension and paravertebral tightness
Gently mobilizes every segment from neck to low back
Complements and extends the effects of chiropractic adjustments
Restores spinal flexibility without pain or force
Deeply relaxing — patients frequently fall asleep on the table
About intersegmental traction therapy
Your spinal discs don't have their own blood supply — they depend on movement to pump nutrients in and waste products out. When segments of the spine become stiff or restricted (from desk work, old injuries, or simple daily wear), that pumping action slows down, and the discs gradually lose height and resilience. Intersegmental traction restores that gentle, rhythmic motion across the entire spine, re-hydrating the discs and easing the muscle tension that builds up around restricted joints.
Unlike aggressive traction that pulls the spine in one direction, intersegmental traction works segment by segment — a wave that rolls through the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical spine in turn. It's gentle enough to use immediately after an adjustment, specific enough to loosen the stiff spots that hands-on care can then correct more easily, and relaxing enough that most patients look forward to it every visit.
New Patient Special
$47
Chiropractic Consult, Full Chiropractic Exam, X-Rays (if necessary), Chiropractic Adjustment, Report of Findings, Care Recommendations
What is intersegmental traction?
Intersegmental traction is a passive spinal mobilization therapy that uses a motorized roller table to gently travel the length of the spine. As the rollers move, they lift and flex each spinal segment in turn — working from the lumbar spine up through the thoracic and cervical regions. The motion is slow, rhythmic, and comfortable, more like a gentle massage than a medical treatment.
The goal is to restore the normal, segmental motion that stiffness and degenerative changes progressively reduce. Spinal discs rely on movement to stay hydrated and nourished; when joints become restricted and that pumping action slows, the discs thin and the surrounding muscles tighten defensively. Intersegmental traction reverses that cycle — gently, without force, and without any unpleasant side effects.
What to expect
When it’s time for your intersegmental traction session, you’ll lie face-up on the roller table fully clothed. Dr. Waltman adjusts the roller height and speed to match your spine’s needs — whether the goal is gentle mobilization for a stiff lower back or lighter work on a sensitive cervical area.
The rollers begin at the lumbar spine and slowly wave upward, creating a pleasant wave-like motion that most patients find deeply relaxing. Sessions are brief, and it’s common to finish feeling noticeably looser and more comfortable than when you started. Many patients have it before their adjustment, which can make the adjustment easier and more effective; others have it after, to help the corrected segments settle in.
Who it helps
Intersegmental traction is a good fit for a wide range of patients, including those dealing with:
- Back pain — especially stiffness, muscle tension, and disc-related achiness in the lumbar or thoracic spine
- Neck pain — restricted cervical segments and tight muscles that limit rotation and extension
- Disc injury — improving circulation and reducing muscle guarding around degenerated or bulging discs
It’s especially valuable as part of a complete care plan alongside chiropractic adjustments. When restricted joints loosen up before an adjustment, the correction is more precise and tends to hold longer. And for patients who are new to care and a little nervous, the traction table is a wonderful first step — gentle, predictable, and genuinely pleasant.
Why choose Thornapple River Chiropractic
At our Grand Rapids office, we don’t use intersegmental traction as a filler between visits — we use it intentionally, as part of a coordinated plan built around your spine’s specific restrictions and goals. Dr. Jonathan Waltman will explain why it’s part of your plan, what we’re working toward, and when you’ll reach the endpoint.
We serve patients from Grand Rapids, Cascade, Ada, Forest Hills, and Kentwood who want drug-free, conservative care that actually makes progress. Ready to get started? Learn more on our New Patients page or book your first visit today.
What it helps
Conditions we treat with intersegmental traction therapy
Good to know
Intersegmental Traction Therapy FAQ
Still have questions? Contact us — we're happy to help.
What is intersegmental traction?+
Intersegmental traction is a therapy that uses a motorized roller table to gently wave along the spine, passively mobilizing each vertebral segment to improve flexibility, disc nutrition, and muscle relaxation.
Does intersegmental traction hurt?+
No — it's one of the gentlest things we do. The rollers move slowly and the pressure is light. Most patients describe it as a pleasant, relaxing massage along the spine.
How long does each session take?+
Each session is usually paired with your chiropractic adjustment on the same visit.
How is intersegmental traction different from spinal decompression?+
Spinal decompression applies targeted axial traction to create negative pressure in a specific disc — it's best for herniated or bulging discs. Intersegmental traction mobilizes the entire spine segment by segment, improving overall flexibility and disc circulation. Many patients benefit from both.
Is intersegmental traction safe?+
Yes. It's a very low-force, passive therapy with an excellent safety record. We screen patients before beginning and adjust the roller pressure to your comfort level.
Who is a good candidate for intersegmental traction?+
Most people with general back stiffness, muscle tightness, disc degeneration, or neck and back pain are good candidates. It pairs especially well with chiropractic care. We rule out any contraindications during your initial exam.
How many sessions will I need?+
It's typically incorporated into your regular care plan, often at every visit. After your exam, Dr. Waltman will give you a specific plan with a clear endpoint.
Can intersegmental traction help a herniated disc?+
It can improve circulation and reduce the muscle guarding around a herniated disc, which eases pain and supports recovery. For direct disc decompression, we often pair it with our non-surgical spinal decompression table.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for intersegmental traction?+
No special preparation is needed. Just wear comfortable clothing. We handle the setup and guide you through your first session.
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What our Grand Rapids patients say
“Dr. Waltman's adjustments have given me so much relief. I notice a HUGE difference after just one time in to see him. I have a tendency to seize up in my neck and back sporadically and each time I've been his patient I leave feeling better--I'm able to exercise normally and sleep without pain. I'm very grateful!”
“My husband and daughter recently visited Dr. Waltman for back and hip pain, and our experience with Dr. Jonathan Waltman was exceptional. Dr. Waltman was not only knowledgeable and thorough in his explanations but also incredibly gentle and compassionate in his approach. His great sense of humor put us at ease throughout the appointments. The care and attention he provided left a lasting impression on us, to the point where I'm now tempted to schedule an appointment myself, even without immediate issues. If you're looking for a chiropractor who combines expertise with a friendly demeanor, I highly recommend Dr. Jonathan Waltman.”
“Extremely knowledgeable and very caring. Took the time to really make sure you had what you needed. Would wildly recommend and I am excited to continue visiting.”