Introduction to Mechanical Traction in Therapy

Introduction to Mechanical Traction in Therapy

• Mechanical traction is a decompression therapy aimed at alleviating pain, reducing spinal compression, and improving spinal health.
• Two types of traction exist: mechanical and manual.
• Mechanical traction uses devices to stretch the spinal vertebrae and muscles.
• Manual traction uses specialized techniques performed by a physiotherapist to stretch the spinal vertebrae and muscles.

Types of Traction

• Mechanical traction utilizes devices to stretch the spine
• Manual traction is performed by physiotherapists to stretch the spine.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Mechanism of Action
• Common Terms
• Indication
• Contraindication
• Patient Preparation
• Operating Controls - Home Screen
• Adjusting Traction During Treatment
• Maintenance (Cleaning - Calibration)
• Practical Application

Mechanism of Action

• Traction creates a distraction force which decompresses spinal structures and alleviates pressure on affected areas.
• The force is either static or intermittent, individualized to patient needs.
• Traction aims to restore alignment, increase intervertebral space, reduce nerve compression, improve circulation and promote healing.

Physiological Effects of Traction

• Pain relief
• Improved spinal mobility
• Enhanced circulation
• Spinal structure decompression
• Reduced nerve irritation
• Non-invasive treatment option

Common Terms

• Progressive Traction: Tension increases gradually
• Regressive Traction: Tension decreases gradually
• Static Traction: Steady traction applied for a set duration
• Intermittent Traction: Alternates between maximum and minimum tension levels
• Cyclic Traction: Continuous repetition of progressive and regressive phases

Indication

• Protruding, bulging, or herniated disc
• Degenerative disc disease
• Posterior facet syndrome
• Radicular pain
• Spinal root impingement
• Hypomobility
• Joint pain
• Discogenic pain

Contraindication

• Structural disease secondary to tumor or infection
• Vascular compromise
• Acute strains, sprains, and inflammation
• Joint instability of the spine
• Pregnancy
• Osteoporosis
• Hiatus hernia
• Cardiac or pulmonary problems
• Claustrophobia

Patient Preparation

• Ensure the patient interrupt switch is connected and functioning.
• Position the patient on an appropriate Chattanooga traction table.
• Fit the harness according to manufacturer instructions.
• Attach the accessory clip to the harness connection point.
• Explain the use of the patient interrupt switch to the patient.

Operating Controls - Home Screen

• The touch-screen displays a traction meter, time remaining, treatment status, progressive/regressive settings, minimum/maximum traction levels, rest/hold times, clinical resources, and stop, pause and start buttons.

Adjusting Traction During Treatment

• Use the pause button for adjusting patient position and harness.
• Press stop or patient interrupt switch to end treatment.
• Adjust traction parameters during the session using the touch screen interface.

Maintenance (Cleaning - Calibration)

• Disconnect the unit from power before cleaning.
• Clean with a soft damp cloth moistened with water and mild antibacterial soap or an antimicrobial cleaner.
• Avoid using alcohol or chlorine-based solvents.
• Annual factory calibration is required.
• Quarterly preventative maintenance is recommended to ensure proper functioning and longevity.

Practical Application

• Determine body weight
• Adjust tension up to 7 to 10% of body weight for cervical traction
• Determine amount of neck flexion and adjust traction machine accordingly (upper, middle and lower cervical regions).
• Remove eyewear and anything else from the cervical region.
• Traction therapy feels like a stretching sensation and relaxing.

Explore the fundamentals of mechanical traction therapy in this quiz. Learn about the different types of traction, their mechanisms, indications, and how they can aid in spinal health. Perfect for students and professionals looking to deepen their understanding of therapeutic techniques.