Buck’s traction is a type of traction that uses straps to apply a pulling force to the lower leg. The force of the traction helps to reduce pain, maintain the length of the fracture, and prevent muscle spasms.
Buck’s traction is most commonly used to treat femoral fractures, which are fractures of the thighbone. It can also be used to treat other types of fractures, such as hip fractures and acetabular fractures.
Benefits of Buck’s traction
Buck’s traction has several benefits, including:
- Reduces pain: The pulling force of the traction helps to take pressure off the injured area, which can reduce pain.
- Maintains length of the fracture: The pulling force of the traction helps to keep the bones in the correct alignment, which can help to prevent the fracture from getting worse.
- Prevents muscle spasms: The pulling force of the traction can help to relax the muscles in the affected area, which can prevent muscle spasms.
- Reduces pressure on nerves: The pulling force of the traction can help to relieve pressure on nerves in the area, which can help to prevent nerve damage.
Risks of Buck’s traction
Buck’s traction has some risks, including:
- Skin breakdown: The straps used to apply the traction can put pressure on the skin, which can lead to skin breakdown.
- Nerve damage: The pulling force of the traction can put pressure on nerves, which can lead to nerve damage.
- Blood clots: The pulling force of the traction can slow down the blood flow in the affected limb, which can increase the risk of blood clots.
How to care for Buck’s traction
If you are in Buck’s traction, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to avoid complications. Some of the things you can do to care for Buck’s traction include:
- Keep the skin clean and dry.
- Check the circulation and sensation in the affected limb regularly.
- Report any problems to your doctor or nurse.
Conclusion
Buck’s traction is a safe and effective way to treat certain types of fractures. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to avoid complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the different types of Buck’s traction?
There are two main types of Buck’s traction: skin traction and skeletal traction. Skin traction uses straps to apply the pulling force to the skin. Skeletal traction uses a pin inserted into the bone to apply the pulling force.
- How long do I need to be in Buck’s traction?
The length of time you need to be in Buck’s traction will vary depending on the type of fracture you have and how well it is healing. In general, you will need to be in Buck’s traction for several weeks.
- Can I walk with Buck’s traction?
No, you cannot walk with Buck’s traction. The traction will prevent you from bending your knee, which is necessary for walking.
- What are the signs of a complication from Buck’s traction?
The signs of a complication from Buck’s traction include:
- Pain
- Redness or swelling in the affected limb
- Numbness or tingling in the affected limb
- Decreased blood flow to the affected limb
If you experience any of these signs, you should contact your doctor or nurse immediately.