Health Care Encyclopedia
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TractionDefinition: Traction uses weights and pulleys to put tension on a displaced bone or joint, such as a dislocated hip, to realign the bone and immobilize it. Traction is also used to keep a group of muscles stretched (such as the lower spinal muscles) to reduce muscle spasms. As a treatment, traction will involve a certain amount of tension to pull the body part into another position, a length of time to use the tension, and a way to maintain the tension.
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| Review Date: 8/8/2005
Reviewed By: Kevin B. Freedman, MD, MSCE, Sports Medicine, Orthopaedic Specialists, Bryn Mawr, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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