Whenever we treat thigh bone fractures (also known as femoral fractures), Buck’s traction is a powerful and successful physical therapy treatment. Now, we will explore the complexity of Buck’s traction, its uses, and the key aims it tries to achieve in the rehabilitation process.
Table of Contents
What is Buck’s Traction?
Buck’s traction, or sometimes referred to as Buck’s extension, serves as a pivotal method in the short-term treatment of various fractures, including femoral neck fractures, femoral shaft fractures in adolescents and adults, and fractures following the reduction of a hip dislocation. Additionally, it finds utility in making small adjustments to flexed abnormalities of the hip or knee. It serves as a temporary measure for conditions like low back pain and pelvic rotation.
The technique involves the application of longitudinal traction to an extremity using a single pulley. Simultaneously, it maintains an extended position for the leg, preventing hip flexion. Surgeons may opt for tape or a pre-made Buck’s traction boot, ensuring that the applied weight does not exceed 4.5 kilograms at any point.
The Purpose of Buck’s Traction
The primary goals of maintaining Buck’s traction position are multifaceted, aiming to address various aspects of the affected limb:
Restore Normal Bone Alignment and Length: The fundamental purpose is to align and lengthen the affected bone, contributing to its overall recovery.
Lessen or Eliminate Muscular Spasms: Buck’s traction proves instrumental in alleviating muscular spasms, fostering a more comfortable and controlled rehabilitation process.
Reduce Pressure on Nerves: By maintaining the traction position, pressure on nerves is minimized, facilitating a smoother recovery process.
Prevent Skeletal Abnormalities or Muscular Contractures: There is an inherent focus on reducing the risk of developing skeletal abnormalities or muscular contractures, promoting a more comprehensive recovery.
Fusiform Tamponade to Stop Bleeding: In certain scenarios, Buck’s traction is employed to create a fusiform tamponade around a bleeding vessel, effectively halting the bleeding process.
Understanding Traction Techniques
Traction, in general, involves the application of a pulling force to an injured part of the body or extremity. Two primary methods exist: skin traction and skeletal traction. The choice between the two hinges on where the pin or base is placed.
Skin Traction (Buck Traction):
This method involves strapping the patient’s affected lower limb and attaching weights. It is particularly useful for treating soft muscle and tendon injuries, and no anesthesia is required.
Skeletal Traction:
In contrast, skeletal traction necessitates the insertion of a pin into the broken bone. It is often chosen for the immobilization of joints or bones, reduction or realignment of dislocations and fractures, and prevention of muscular spasms.
When is Buck’s Traction Needed?
Buck’s external traction proves beneficial in various scenarios, including the treatment of femoral fractures, lower back pain, acetabular fractures, and hip fractures in the lower limb. While skin traction helps relieve discomfort and maintain length in fractures, it may only occasionally contribute to the actual healing of the fracture.

Advantages of Skeletal Traction
Skeletal traction, a subcategory of traction, boasts several advantages that make it a preferred choice in specific situations:
Immobilization of a Joint or Bone:
Skeletal traction excels in effectively immobilizing joints or bones, contributing to a stable and controlled recovery process.
Reduction or Realignment of Dislocations and Fractures:
The technique is instrumental in the reduction or realignment of dislocated joints and fractures, ensuring proper healing.
Prevention of Muscular Spasms:
Traction, particularly skeletal traction, plays a crucial role in reducing and preventing the occurrence of muscular spasms, fostering a more comfortable rehabilitation journey.
In conclusion, Buck’s traction emerges as a valuable tool in the orthopedic toolkit, offering a holistic approach to femoral fracture management. By understanding its purpose, application techniques, and variations, healthcare professionals can leverage Buck’s traction to enhance patient outcomes and facilitate effective rehabilitation.
FAQs
Q: How does Buck’s traction restore bone alignment?
It aids in restoring bone alignment by applying longitudinal force to the affected extremity, ensuring proper positioning during the healing process.
Q: Is Buck traction suitable for all femoral fractures?
It is commonly employed for various femoral fractures; however, its suitability depends on the specific characteristics of the fracture.
Q: What weight limit is recommended for Bucks traction?
To ensure safety and effectiveness, the weight in Buck’s traction should not exceed 4.5 kilograms at any point during the treatment.
Q: Are there any risks associated with Buck’s traction?
While generally safe, they may pose risks such as skin irritation or pressure sores. Proper monitoring and adjustments are essential to mitigate these risks.
Q: How long is Buck’s traction typically applied?
The duration of Buck traction varies based on the nature and severity of the fracture. Healthcare providers determine the optimal duration for each patient’s specific case.