06-11: Traction

Question 1

Definition of traction

Answer 1

• Application of mechanical forces to the body, which sometimes results in…
• Separating joint surfaces (distraction)
• Decreasing pressure (disk height loss)
• Traction follows path of least resistance

Question 2

Traction Applications (4)

Answer 2

• Mechanical: Machine
• Manual: Therapist
• Home Traction Unit
• Positional Distraction

Question 3

Therapeutic Effects of Traction

Answer 3

• Joint distraction
• Soft tissue stretching
• Reduction of disk protrusion (takes pressure off nerve by opening up foramen)
• Muscle relaxation (sustained pressure leads to reciprocal inhibition)
• Joint mobility (increase mobility by loosening joint capsule)

Question 4

Indications for traction

Answer 4

• Nerve impingement
• Herniated disc
• Subacute joint inflammation (10-day rule for manual)
• Spondylolisthesis (anterior displacement of vertebra or vertebral column in relation to vertebrae below) - helps with grade 1 (25%) or grade 2 (50%)
• Joint hypomobility
• Paraspinal muscle spasm
• Degenerative joint disease
• Osteophyte formation (bone spurs)

Question 5

Contraindications for traction

Answer 5

• When motion is contraindicated
• Joint instability (hypermobile)
• Tumor
• Pregnancy
• Acute inflammatory response
• Acute sprain
• Osteoporosis
• Fracture