Traction Therapy Overview

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Questions and Answers

What should be done before cleaning the traction unit?

Use abrasive materials for cleaning

Clean the touch screen with an alcohol-based solution

Disconnect the unit from power (correct)

Submerge the unit in water

During traction treatment, which button is used to adjust the patient’s position or harness?

Start button

Pause button (correct)

Stop button

Patient Interrupt Switch

For cervical traction, what is the recommended tension range based on body weight?

7% - 10% (correct)

5% - 8%

10% - 15%

12% - 18%

What is the correct angle for upper cervical region adjustment during traction setup?

10 degrees Signup and view all the answers

What maintenance procedure is recommended annually for the traction unit?

Factory calibration Signup and view all the answers

What is a physiological effect of traction that enhances movement functionality?

Improved Spinal Mobility Signup and view all the answers

Which type of traction involves a steady application of force without variations?

Static Traction Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is NOT an indication for the use of traction?

Cardiac Complications Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a common contraindication for the application of traction?

Osteoporosis Signup and view all the answers

What is a common purpose of traction in a non-invasive treatment setting?

Relieve pain Signup and view all the answers

What phase of traction involves a gradual increase in tension?

Progressive Traction Signup and view all the answers

Which traction type alternates between maximum and minimum tension levels?

Intermittent Traction Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a physiological effect of traction that supports blood flow?

Enhanced Circulation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions necessitates caution when using traction?

Joint Instability of the Spine Signup and view all the answers

What must be ensured before applying traction to a patient?

The Patient Interrupt Switch is functioning Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of traction in spinal therapy?

To reduce compression on spinal structures Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes mechanical traction from manual traction?

Mechanical traction involves devices, while manual traction is performed by therapists Signup and view all the answers

Which method of traction involves the application of force through devices?

Mechanical Traction Signup and view all the answers

How does traction primarily benefit spinal health?

By restoring alignment and increasing intervertebral space Signup and view all the answers

What types of force can be applied during traction?

Static or intermittent force Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential outcome of successful traction therapy?

Improvement in overall spinal health Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the mechanism of action of traction?

It provides a distraction force to relieve pressure Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Introduction

Traction is a decompression therapy that aims to alleviate pain, reduce spinal compression, and improve spinal health.
Two types of traction exist: mechanical and manual.
Mechanical traction uses devices to stretch the spine and muscles.
Manual traction uses specialized therapists to stretch the spine and muscles.

Clinical Efficacy of Mechanical Traction

A meta-analysis explored the clinical effect of mechanical traction on lumbar disc herniation (LDH).
Mechanical traction reduced pain (measured by VAS) and disability (measured by ODI) compared to conventional physical therapy.
No significant improvement was found in spinal motion with traction.
Traction can be used alongside other physical therapy treatments.

Cervical Radiculopathy & Traction Therapy

Cervical traction (CT) is a frequently used treatment for cervical radiculopathy (CR).
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials examined the effectiveness of adding traction to physical therapy for CR.
Mechanical and manual traction showed significant short and intermediate-term pain reduction but lesser effects on function/disability.

Mechanism of Action

Traction creates a distraction force that decompresses spinal structures and relieves pressure.
The force can be static or intermittent, with adjustable tension, duration, and frequency.
Traction aims to restore proper spinal alignment, increase intervertebral space, reduce nerve compression, improve circulation, and accelerate healing.
Physiological effects include pain relief, improved spinal mobility, enhanced circulation, reduced nerve irritation, and non-invasive treatment options.

Common Terms

Progressive Traction: Tension increases gradually.
Regressive Traction: Tension decreases gradually.
Static Traction: Steady traction applied for a set duration.
Intermittent Traction: Alternating 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 functional.
Position the patient on a suitable traction table.
Fit the traction harness correctly.
Attach the accessory clip to the harness.
Explain the use of the patient interrupt switch.

Operating Controls - Home Screen

Displays traction meter, time remaining, treatment status.
Offers progressive, traction, and regressive settings.
Provides minimum and maximum traction levels.
Includes rest time and hold time options.
Presents clinical resources.
Features stop, pause, and start buttons.

Adjusting Traction During Treatment

Use the pause button to adjust patient position or harness.
Press stop or the patient interrupt switch to end treatment immediately.
Adjust traction parameters through the touch screen during the session.

Maintenance (Cleaning - Calibration)

Disconnect the unit from power before cleaning.
Clean with a lint-free cloth moistened with water and mild antibacterial soap.
For more sterile cleaning, use an antimicrobial cleaner.
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.

Practical Application (Traction Set Up)

Determine body weight: 7%-10% for cervical traction.
Adjust neck flexion: 10 degrees (upper); 15 degrees (middle); 20 degrees (lower).
Remove eyeglasses and any other cervical region items.

Patient Experience

Traction therapy typically involves a stretching sensation.
Patients often describe a feeling of relaxation.

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Description

This quiz explores traction therapy, its types, and clinical effectiveness in treating conditions like lumbar disc herniation and cervical radiculopathy. You'll learn about mechanical versus manual traction methods and their role in pain relief and spinal health. Test your knowledge on how traction integrates with physical therapy.