Definition

Lateral traction is a technique in which tension is used to move a body part to the side or away from its original location.

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Information

Traction can be used to treat a hip dislocation by applying tension to the leg with weights and pulleys to realign the bone within the hip socket and to keep it in place while it heals.

Traction as a treatment involves the amount of tension or force used, the length of time the tension is used, and the means used to maintain the tension.

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.