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.