Traction Flashcards
What does traction do?
It reduces joint compression and widens the foramen
What are the effects of spinal traction?
Soft tissue stretching, muscle relaxation, and joint mobilization/distraction
Why is soft tissue stretching important for patients?
To create more freedom for movement in hypomobile joints
Why is joint mobilization/distraction important for patients?
Very beneficial for patients who are sensitive to spinal loading and/or compression of nerve roots
What are indications for traction?
Disc bulge or herniation Nerve root impingement Joint hypomobility Subacute joint inflammation Paraspinal muscle spasms
What are contraindications for traction?
When motion is contraindicated
Acute injury or inflammation
Joint hypermobility
Uncontrolled hypertension
Maximum force for lumbar traction
No more than 50% of the patient’s total body weight
Maximum force for head traction
No more than 50% of the patient’s head weight or 30 lbs
Starting force for lumbar traction?
30-45 lbs
Starting force for head traction?
8-10 lbs
How long can a treatment duration for traction be?
40 minutes max
What is the initial treatment duration for traction?
5-10 minutes
What is the typical treatment duration for traction?
10-15 minutes
