Traction is a set of mechanisms for straightening broken bones or relieving pressure on the spine and skeletal system.
There are two major types
of traction: skin traction and skeletal traction. They can also be classified to as either fixed, pulp, or balanced tractions
Types of traction
Fixed traction
Here the traction is attached to a stationary point e.g. Thomas splint
Pulp traction
Used in the management of fracture of the fingers and toes;
To correct the shape of fingers
A suture passes through a pulp(bone) of the fingers then fastened to an extension piece in cooperated in the P.O.P applied to a hand or foot
Balanced traction
Composed of two opposing forces that are separated by a raised structure e.g. elevated bed to balance the forces.
