Intersegmental Mechanical Traction
Spinal stiffness and restricted movement can contribute to ongoing pain, poor posture, and reduced mobility. Intersegmental Mechanical Traction, or IMT, is a gentle and non-invasive therapy is designed to improve spinal motion, increase circulation, and support the overall health of the spine.
Our team at Sandia Injury Center uses Intersegmental Mechanical Traction as a way to complement chiropractic care and improve the quality of the body’s natural healing process.
What Is Intersegmental Mechanical Traction?
Intersegmental Mechanical Traction is a type of therapy that uses a specialized table with moving rollers. The table and the rollers gently stretch and mobilize the spine. As you lie on the table in a comfortable position, the rollers move up and down your back, which creates a rhythmic lifting motion that targets different areas of the spine.
This motion helps to stimulate movement between individual vertebrae, which is essential for maintaining flexibility and proper spinal function.
How This Therapy Works
The spine is made up of a number of different segments that need to move freely for the body to function properly. When these segments become restricted due to injury, poor posture, or muscle tension, it can lead to stiffness and discomfort.
Intersegmental Mechanical Traction works by:
-
Gently mobilizing spinal joints
-
Increasing flexibility between vertebrae
-
Promoting circulation to spinal discs and surrounding tissues
-
Reducing stiffness and tension in the back
-
Supporting the body’s natural healing process
Since the movement is a passive one, patients can relax while the therapy does the work.
Conditions That May Benefit From IMT
Intersegmental Mechanical Traction is a common way to support those who have a range of spinal and musculoskeletal issues. We often add IMT into a broader treatment plan for better results.
Some conditions that may benefit from IMT include:
-
Back and neck pain
-
Spinal stiffness/low mobility
-
Muscle tension along the spine
-
Postural imbalances
-
Degenerative disc conditions
-
Recovery from auto accidents or workplace injuries
-
General discomfort
Intersegmental Mechanical Traction is especially effective for those who feel tightness or limited mobility in their backs.
What to Expect During Treatment
IMT sessions are simple, comfortable, and relaxing. Patients are fully clothed when lying on the traction table
During a session, you can expect the following:
-
A gentle rolling motion along the spine
-
Light stretching and lifting sensations
-
A relaxing experience with minimal discomfort
-
Sessions typically lasting 10 to 20 minutes
Most patients find IMT sessions to be soothing, and they report feeling more flexible and relaxed afterward.
Benefits of Intersegmental Mechanical Traction
Intersegmental Mechanical Traction offers a number of different benefits. These support both short-term relief and long-term health of the spine.
Some of the main benefits include:
-
Improved spinal mobility and flexibility
-
Increased circulation to discs and soft tissues
-
Reduced muscle tension and stiffness
-
Enhanced effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments
-
Support for proper posture
-
Drug-free, non-invasive treatment
These benefits make IMT a valuable addition to many of the personalized plans we create for our patients.
Pain and Injuries
Foot Pain
Knee Pain
Back Pain
Sports Injury
Work Injury
Car Accidents
.jpg)
Enhancing Chiropractic Care
At Sandia Injury Center, we often use Intersegmental Mechanical Traction alongside chiropractic adjustments to improve the overall outcomes for our patients. While chiropractic adjustments focus on correcting alignment, IMT helps to prepare and support the spine by increasing mobility and circulation.
This combination can:
-
Make adjustments more effective
-
Reduce muscle resistance
-
Improve recovery between visits
-
Support long-term spinal health
By addressing both movement and alignment, patients receive more comprehensive care.
Supporting Spinal Health at Home
Maintaining spinal health between visits is an important part of getting results that last for the long-term. Our patients are encouraged to add new habits to their lifestyle that support flexibility and proper alignment.
Helpful tips include:
-
Staying active with regular movement
-
Incorporating stretching into daily routines
-
Maintaining good posture when sitting and standing
-
Using ergonomic furniture when possible
-
Avoiding prolonged periods of inactivity
These steps can help support the benefits of in-office Intersegmental Mechanical Traction treatment.
Improve Mobility and Feel the Difference
Spinal stiffness and limited mobility can affect how you move and feel each day. Intersegmental Mechanical Traction offers a gentle, effective way to restore movement and support overall spinal function.
At Sandia Injury Center, this therapy is part of a personalized approach designed to help patients feel better, move more freely, and maintain long-term health. Whether used on its own or alongside other treatments, IMT can play an important role in your recovery.
If stiffness or discomfort is limiting your mobility, Intersegmental Mechanical Traction may be the solution that helps you move forward with greater comfort and ease.