Intersegmental Traction Therapy in Monterey
Intersegmental traction in Monterey uses a gentle roller table to mobilize each spinal segment, improve disc circulation, ease muscle tension, and restore flexibility.
New Beginnings Chiropractic
Intersegmental Traction Therapy in Monterey
Intersegmental traction is one of the most relaxing therapies we offer — patients often call it a "spine massage." A motorized table gently waves up and down, gently decompressing and stretching your spine, slowly mobilizing each vertebral segment, restoring the normal motion that stiffness and disc degeneration steal away. For patients across Monterey, Seaside, Pacific Grove, Carmel, Marina, Pebble Beach and Salinas, it's a natural complement to chiropractic adjustments that makes the whole treatment plan work better and last longer.
How it works
What to expect with Intersegmental Traction Therapy
- Step 1
Postural and range-of-motion assessment
We check where your spine is stiff and restricted before starting, so we can set the roller height and speed to target the segments that need mobilization most.
- Step 2
Guided roller-table session
You lie comfortably on the table for 10–15 minutes while the gentle rollers travel the length of your spine. Most patients find it deeply relaxing — some fall asleep.
- Step 3
Coordinated with your adjustment
We typically use intersegmental traction before or after your chiropractic adjustment to loosen restricted tissue first and help the adjustment hold longer afterward.
Why patients choose it
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
The basics
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.
Limited-Time Offer
$47 New Patient Special
$357 Value — Your complete first visit — one simple price.
Your Visit Includes
New patients only. Mention this special when you book. The $47 new patient special does not include shockwave treatment.
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. Your doctor 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 run 10–15 minutes, 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 and flexion-distraction. 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 New Beginnings Chiropractic
At our Monterey 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. Our doctors 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 Monterey, Seaside, Pacific Grove, Carmel, and Marina 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?+
A typical session runs 10–15 minutes and is usually paired with your chiropractic adjustment on the same visit.
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, our doctors will give you a specific, time-bound plan with a clear endpoint.
Will my insurance cover intersegmental traction?+
Coverage varies by plan. We accept many major insurance plans and offer affordable self-pay options. Send us your insurance details and we'll check your benefits before your first visit.
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 work, we often pair it with [flexion-distraction](/services/flexion-distraction/) and gentle chiropractic adjustments.
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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Patient reviews
What our Monterey patients say
“I’ve been seeing Dr(Richard) Westbrook for about 25 yrs. My go-to for injuries, maintenance, and great conversation . Also to keep my immune system up. A true partner in healing. I mean the guy even “walked me through” menopause pretty much unscathed which is quite a recommendation. And is also now my partner in aging well. I think his work has been one of the reasons I’m upright, and look and feel younger than most 75 yr olds ( who don’t exercise regularly .) If you need someone to truly listen to you and heal and help you feel better he’s by far the best.”
“I have been a patient of Dr. Westbrook’s since 2010. Whenever I need chiropractic care, he is someone I trust completely. Dr. Westbrook is kind, professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely attentive to his patients’ individual needs. He takes the time to listen and has always made me feel comfortable and cared for. He is also incredibly accommodating with scheduling and has gone out of his way several times to fit me in when I needed an appointment on short notice. That level of care means a great deal to me. I especially appreciate his approach because I have had experiences with other chiropractors who were too rough and left me feeling nervous and afraid during adjustments. I have never felt that way with Dr. Westbrook. I trust him 100% and always feel that my comfort and safety are important to him. He offers both manual adjustments and the Activator technique, which I also appreciate. In all the years I have seen him, there was only one occasion when something did not feel quite right after an adjustment. When I contacted him, he got me back into the office right away, addressed the problem, and I left feeling great. That experience actually gave me even more confidence in the level of care he provides. Dr. Westbrook also has a wonderful personality and sense of humor. He makes you feel at ease while still maintaining a high level of professionalism. I always enjoy seeing him, and I consistently leave my appointments feeling better than when I walked in. His wife is also a chiropractor in the practice and has always been extremely kind and professional, although I personally see Dr. Westbrook most often. The entire office is clean, comfortable, and inviting, and the front desk staff are always friendly and welcoming. I enjoy their water massage chairs as well! After knowing the Westbrooks and returning to their practice for more than 15 years, I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for compassionate, professional chiropractic care. Finding a chiropractor you genuinely trust is so important, and I am very grateful to have found that with the Westbrooks.”
“Dr. Richard Westbrook has been my chiropractor for years and years and years. He is great at both providing temporary relief when you are in pain and also helping you prevent future problems. His latest addition to his office is a Shockwave machine, which is an amazing device for treating chronic pain. Be sure to ask him about it!”