What is the main goal of traction in physical therapy?

The primary goal of traction in physical therapy is to promote healing of fractures. Traction involves applying a pulling force to the body, specifically targeting bones or joints that may be fractured or dislocated. This pulling action helps to realign fractured bones, maintain proper positioning, and relieve pressure on surrounding tissues, which can facilitate the healing process. By ensuring that the bone fragments are correctly aligned, traction can help reduce complications and improve the overall outcome of fracture management.

While reducing pain, improving mobility, and strengthening muscles are important aspects of physical therapy, they are not the main objective of traction. Instead, these other goals may be addressed through other modalities and interventions following the successful application of traction to promote healing.