Therapeutic or Preventive Procedure
traction Audio
trac·tion [ trak-shuhn ]
Subclass of:
Orthopedic Procedures
Etymology:
Latin trahere = to pull
Definitions related to traction:
  • The application of pulling forces to improve functional alignment.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • The process of putting a bone or other body part under a pulling tension by applying weights and pulleys to help healing.
    Harvard Dictionary of Health Terms
    Harvard Medical Publishing, 2011
  • The pull on a limb or a part thereof. Skin traction (indirect traction) is applied by using a bandage to pull on the skin and fascia where light traction is required. Skeletal traction (direct traction), however, uses pins or wires inserted through bone and is attached to weights, pulleys, and ropes. (From Blauvelt & Nelson, A Manual of Orthopaedic Terminology, 5th ed)
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.