skeletal traction


skel·e·tal trac·tion

traction pull on a bone structure mediated through a pin or wire inserted into the bone to reduce a fracture of long bones. Synonym(s): skeletal extension

skeletal traction

Pin traction Orthopedics Traction first achieved with tongs, followed by wire–eg, a K wire or pin–eg, Steinmann pin, placement in a bone–eg, tibia, femur and weights suspended therefrom to maintain proper alignment of the Fx. See Traction Physical therapy A technique that may relieve pain linked to certain neck disorders–eg, muscle spasm, nerve root compression, osteoarthritis, cervical spondylosis, myofascial syndrome, facet joint dysfunction; cervical traction–CT applies a stretch to muscles, ligaments, and tissue components of the cervical spine, providing relief by promoting separation of the intervertebral joint space, which contains the disc and may reduce bulging or impingement of structures in the foramen; it is not indicated for conditions of instability–eg, whiplash injuries; CT is most commonly used when the Pt is in the supine position–lying on the back with knees bent at a 45º with the neck placed at 20º-30º of flexion–forward tilt; traction in this position helps stretch the posterior neck muscles and facilitate intervertebral separation, relieving pressure that may be pinching nerves, promoting muscle relaxation and intervertebral separation.

skel·e·tal trac·tion

(skel'ĕ-tăl trak'shŭn) Therapeutic pulling on a bone structure mediated through pin or wire inserted into the bone to reduce a fracture of long bones.
Synonym(s): skeletal extension.