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. In an extremity system, the patient’s body position and bed setup provide the opposing force. 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 and limit further soft-tissue injury while the patient awaits definitive surgical fixation. It may also be used when immediate surgery is unsafe or unavailable.