Traction

Traction applies a controlled pulling force to a body part. Its purpose is to hold a fracture or cervical structure in a safer position, restore or maintain anatomic alignment, and reduce the muscle spasm that intensifies pain after injury. The pull must be continuous and balanced by countertraction: traction and countertraction act in opposite directions along the same line. In an extremity system, the patient’s body weight, body position and bed setup provide the opposing force; in cervical traction the head of the bed is raised to provide it. An effective system has a secure grip on the limb, slings and splints suspended without interference, ropes that slide freely through each pulley, a line of pull in line with the limb, the exact prescribed weight, and weights that hang free. If a weight rests on the bed, a rope catches on the side rail, or the patient slides out of alignment, the prescribed force no longer reaches the injured area. The apparatus may still look intact while the traction is ineffective. Traction is commonly temporary. It can stabilize a fracture...