Which type of traction uses tapes or strips attached to the skin?

Skin traction is the type of traction that utilizes tapes or strips attached to the skin to provide a pulling force. This method applies a gentle, consistent pulling force on the affected area to alleviate pain and stabilize fractures, particularly in scenarios where skeletal traction is not feasible. The use of adhesive strips or traction tapes allows for a non-invasive method of applying traction directly to the skin, making it suitable for short-term management of conditions such as fractures or dislocations where immediate stabilization is needed.

In addition, skin traction is typically less invasive than skeletal traction, which involves the insertion of pins or wires into the bone to maintain alignment. This makes skin traction a preferred choice in certain clinical situations where a quick adjustment is necessary without the complications that can arise from invasive procedures. The design of skin traction systems also permits easier adjustments and monitoring of the patient.