Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is a physiological effect of traction?
What is a physiological effect of traction?
Which type of traction involves alternating between maximum and minimum tension levels?
Which type of traction involves alternating between maximum and minimum tension levels?
Which of the following is an indication for using traction?
Which of the following is an indication for using traction?
What is a contraindication for the application of traction?
What is a contraindication for the application of traction?
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Which step is NOT part of patient preparation for traction therapy?
Which step is NOT part of patient preparation for traction therapy?
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What is the primary goal of traction therapy?
What is the primary goal of traction therapy?
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Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action of traction?
Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action of traction?
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In what manner can the force applied during traction be administered?
In what manner can the force applied during traction be administered?
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What type of traction requires specialized physiotherapist application?
What type of traction requires specialized physiotherapist application?
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Which of the following is NOT a benefit of traction therapy?
Which of the following is NOT a benefit of traction therapy?
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Study Notes
Mechanical Traction in Therapy
- Mechanical traction is a decompression therapy aiming to alleviate pain, reduce spinal compression, and improve spinal health.
- Two types of traction exist:
- Mechanical traction uses devices to stretch spinal vertebrae and muscles.
- Manual traction uses specialized techniques by physical therapists to stretch spinal vertebrae and muscles.
- Traction is used to treat various spinal conditions.
- Clinical evidence supports the efficacy of mechanical traction in treating lumbar disc herniation (LDH).
- Studies suggest mechanical traction can effectively reduce pain and improve Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores in LDH patients but does not impact spinal motion.
- Additionally, mechanical traction, combined with other physical therapy, shows significant effects on pain at short and intermediate terms, and significant effects on disability in the intermediate term, in the context of cervical radiculopathy.
- Applying traction involves adjusting the force, duration, and frequency based on the patient's needs; it can be static or intermittent.
- Traction works by creating a distraction force to decompress spinal structures and reduce pressure on affected areas. This improves spinal alignment, increases intervertebral space, improves nerve and muscle circulation, and promotes healing.
Common Traction Terms
- Progressive Traction: A stage where traction tension increases gradually.
- Regressive Traction: A phase where tension decreases gradually.
- Static Traction: Steady traction applied for a set time.
- Intermittent Traction: Alternating between maximum and minimum tension levels.
- Cyclic Traction: Continuous repetition of progressive and regressive phases.
Indication for Traction
- Protruding, bulging, or herniated discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Posterior facet syndrome
- Radicular pain
- Spinal root impingement
- Hypomobility
- Joint pain
- Discogenic pain
Contraindications for Traction
- Structural diseases 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 working correctly
- Position the patient on a suitable Chattanooga traction table.
- Fit the traction harness as per manufacturer's instructions.
- Attach the accessory clip to the harness.
- Provide the patient with the interrupt switch and explain its use.
Operating Controls - Home Screen
- Traction meter
- Time remaining
- Treatment status
- Progressive, TX (traction), and regressive settings
- Minimum and maximum traction levels
- Rest time and hold time
- Clinical resources button
- Stop, pause, and start buttons
Adjusting Traction During Treatment
- Use the pause button to adjust patient position or harness.
- Press the stop button or the patient interrupt switch to end the treatment immediately.
- Modify traction parameters during the session using the touch screen.
Maintenance (Cleaning - Calibration)
- Disconnect the unit from the power before cleaning.
- Use a clean, lint-free cloth dampened with water and mild antibacterial soap for cleaning.
- For more thorough cleaning, use an antimicrobial cleaner (not water immersion).
- Clean the touch screen with a soft, damp cloth; avoid alcohol or chlorine-based solvents.
- Annual factory calibration is required.
- A quarterly preventive maintenance schedule is recommended to ensure proper functioning and longevity.
Traction Set Up
- Determine body weight and set tension to 7%-10%.
- Adjust neck flexion to 10°(upper), 15°(middle), and 20°(lower)
- Remove glasses and other items from the cervical area.
- Traction therapy typically feels like a stretching sensation; it can also be relaxing.
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Description
This quiz explores the principles and applications of mechanical traction in therapeutic settings. It covers the differences between mechanical and manual traction and highlights clinical evidence supporting its efficacy in treating conditions like lumbar disc herniation and cervical radiculopathy. Test your knowledge on how mechanical traction can alleviate pain and improve patient outcomes.
