Principles and Applications of Skin Traction

Mechanisms of Skin Traction

Skin traction is a technique used in orthopaedics to provide continuous, controlled force to an injured limb. It utilizes adhesive or non-adhesive materials applied externally to the skin to stabilize fractures, alleviate muscle spasms, and promote proper bone alignment.

Indications for Skin Traction

• Temporary immobilization of fractures before definitive treatment
• Reduction of muscle spasms in acute injuries
• Management of pediatric femur fractures
• Preoperative preparation for hip surgeries

Types of Skin Traction

Common types of skin traction include Buck’s traction, Russell traction, and Bryant’s traction, each tailored to specific orthopaedic conditions.