Intersegmental Traction (IST) therapy is a passive, mechanical treatment used primarily in chiropractic and physical therapy settings to promote spinal health. The technique involves applying rhythmic, rolling forces to the spine as a form of non-invasive traction. This therapy gently introduces motion into the vertebral column to counter stiffness and tension resulting from daily posture or injury. Since IST allows the patient to relax while a specialized machine does the work, it is often used as a preparatory step before manual adjustments or active rehabilitation exercises.
Defining Intersegmental Traction Therapy
The therapy is delivered using a specialized intersegmental traction table, often nicknamed a “roller table.” This equipment features motorized rollers positioned beneath the surface that move slowly and rhythmically along the length of the patient’s spine, typically from the neck to the lower back.
The table’s design applies a gentle, wave-like motion to the spine, differentiating it from traditional manual traction, which involves a sustained, linear pull. Since the patient lies still while the machine provides the therapeutic force, IST is considered a passive treatment. The rollers are usually made of soft foam or rubber for comfortable contact.
How the Therapy Mobilizes the Spine
The core biomechanical effect of IST is the gentle mobilization of individual vertebral segments. As the rollers travel along the back, they lift the spine, creating a mild extension force at the intervertebral joints. This repeated, cyclical movement helps to restore movement patterns in spinal segments that may have become restricted or “fixed.” The term “intersegmental” refers directly to this action of introducing motion between contiguous vertebrae.
The pumping action created by the rolling motion encourages fluid exchange within the intervertebral discs. Since spinal discs lack a direct blood supply, they rely on movement to draw in nutrients and expel metabolic waste. By gently cycling the pressure on the discs, IST promotes better hydration, which is beneficial for disc health and flexibility.
The rhythmic pressure also helps to passively stretch the paraspinal muscles and ligaments. This sustained stretching can lead to muscle relaxation and a reduction in localized muscle spasms. The mechanical stimulation also affects the nervous system by stimulating proprioceptive nerves, which can help to interrupt the pain reflex.
What to Expect During a Session
A typical intersegmental traction session is a straightforward and comfortable experience for the patient. The individual lies face-up, or supine, on the specialized table, often with support rolls placed under the neck and knees to ensure proper spinal alignment and comfort. The practitioner will then set the parameters on the machine, which can include the speed and intensity of the roller movement.
The duration of the treatment is generally short, often lasting between 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the patient will feel the motorized rollers slowly traveling up and down the length of their back. Most people describe the sensation as a gentle, relaxing massage or a rhythmic, deep stretch.
Patients are usually advised to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to allow the rollers to move freely. The machine operates with a low mechanical hum. The practitioner’s role during the session is minimal once the parameters are set, as the therapy is entirely machine-driven.
Clinical Applications and Therapeutic Goals
Healthcare providers commonly prescribe intersegmental traction to achieve specific therapeutic goals related to spinal function. The primary aim of the treatment is often to increase the overall range of motion and mobility within the spinal column. By mobilizing stiff segments, the therapy seeks to restore the spine’s natural, healthy movement patterns.
Another significant goal is to reduce localized muscle stiffness and tension in the muscles surrounding the spine. The gentle, mechanical kneading action helps to soothe hypertonic muscles and relieve spasms that restrict movement. This muscle relaxation supports the process of restoring a more normal spinal curvature and posture.
IST is frequently used to prepare the spine for other forms of treatment, such as manual chiropractic adjustments. Relaxing the muscles and mobilizing the joints beforehand can make the spine more receptive to realignment techniques. Conversely, it can also be used after an adjustment to help reinforce the new alignment by encouraging the surrounding soft tissues to relax into the improved position.