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Definition

Traction is force applied by weights or other devices to treat bone or muscle disorders or injuries.

Purpose

Traction treats fractures, dislocations, or muscle spasms in an effort to correct deformities and promote healing.

Description

Traction is referred to as a pulling force to treat muscle or skeletal disorders. There are two major types of traction: skin and skeletal traction, within which there are a number of treatments.

Skin traction

Skin traction includes weight traction, which uses lighter weights or counterweights to apply force to fractures or dislocated joints. Weight traction may be employed...