Skeletal Traction

Traction is regarded as the most common treatment for skeletal, muscle and spinal pain. This process involves the application of a typical force whether it’s manually or mechanically to a specific spinal segment to mitigate pressure on the neuro-musculoskeletal system and the spine. The traction is mostly used for treating sciatica, herniated discs, pinched nerves, degenerative disc diseases and other spinal problems.

What is Skeletal Traction?

Skeletal traction is a type of treatment method applied for broken bones. It is a procedure involving a combination of pulleys, pins, and weights that are used for the healing of fractured bones. These are generally performed in the lower parts of the body. In skeletal traction, a pin is placed inside the patient’s bone and this pin provides the base for a pulley system.

Skeletal traction is mainly used to treat fractures of the femur or thighbone. It’s a preferred method when there is a greater force to be applied to the affected area. The force is directly applied to the bone. It means more weight is added so that it won’t damage the surrounding soft tissues. Based on the evaluation of the doctor, there are various factors to decide such as the traction type to be used, the weight of the distraction, and the treatment duration.

As severe back pain makes the patient more inactive, the objective of the treatment is to make the patient more functional without making any pain or injury. So, the treatment starts using lightweight during the distraction and is increased gradually.

How it is performed

There will be the application of splints, bandages, or adhesive tapes to the skin just below the fracture area.  Once the material is applied, the weights are fixed firmly to it. Then, the affected area is pulled into its right position using a pulley system that is attached to the bed.

Who are eligible for the treatment?

The treatment is given to patients with following complications- sciatica, slipped discs, degenerative disc diseases, pinched nerves, herniated discs, facet disease, bone spurs, bulged discs, spinal arthritis, spondylosis and foramina stenosis.

𝐒𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐀 𝐇𝐎𝐒𝐏𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐋 offers advanced skeletal traction treatment led by renowned Spine Sports and Joint Replacement & Orthopaedic Consultant Dr R. SARAVANAN.