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| Definition: | Using tension (or force) to move a body part from a problematic position into an optimal and functional position. See lateral traction.
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| Information: | Traction is used to put tension on a displaced bone or joint (such as a dislocated hip) with weights and pulleys to realign the bone and to immobilize it. Traction is also used to put tension on a group of muscles (such as the lower spinal muscles) to reduce the muscle spasms by stretching the muscles and keeping them in a stretched state.
Traction as a treatment involves the amount of tension used to pull the body part into another position, the length of time the tension is used, the means used to maintain the tension.
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Review Date: 10/11/2001
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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