|
|
|
|
|
| Definition: |
Using tension (or force) to move a body part from a problematic position into an optimal and functional position. See lateral traction.
|
| Information: |
Traction is used to put tension on a displaced bone or joint (such as a dislocated hip) with weights and pulleys to realign the bone and to immobilize it. Traction is also used to put tension on a group of muscles (such as the lower spinal muscles) to reduce the muscle spasms by stretching the muscles and keeping them in a stretched state.
Traction as a treatment involves the amount of tension used to pull the body part into another position, the length of time the tension is used, the means used to maintain the tension. |
|
|
Review Date: 10/11/2001
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.
|
 |
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).
|
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
|
