Which finding indicates when to perform traction-in-line?

Which finding indicates when to perform traction-in-line?

• A. Angulation
• B. Reduced Range of Motion
• C. Bone Ends
• D. Crepitus

Answer: (A)

Traction-in-line is used when a long-bone fracture shows a deformity where the bone ends are out of alignment along the limb’s axis. The key cue for deciding to use traction is angulation—the limb looks bent or displaced from its normal straight line. Gently applying inline traction can help pull the bone ends toward alignment, reduce soft-tissue tension, and make subsequent splinting more effective and comfortable for the patient. Reduced range of motion is a sign of injury severity but doesn’t specifically indicate that traction should be used. Crepitus confirms a fracture but doesn’t by itself signal the necessity for traction. Visible bone ends or an open fracture is a situation where traction is usually avoided due to risk of worsening contamination or tissue injury; other stabilization steps are prioritized first.

Traction-in-line is used when a long-bone fracture shows a deformity where the bone ends are out of alignment along the limb’s axis. The key cue for deciding to use traction is angulation—the limb looks bent or displaced from its normal straight line. Gently applying inline traction can help pull the bone ends toward alignment, reduce soft-tissue tension, and make subsequent splinting more effective and comfortable for the patient.

Reduced range of motion is a sign of injury severity but doesn’t specifically indicate that traction should be used. Crepitus confirms a fracture but doesn’t by itself signal the necessity for traction. Visible bone ends or an open fracture is a situation where traction is usually avoided due to risk of worsening contamination or tissue injury; other stabilization steps are prioritized first.