What is skeletal traction?

Skeletal traction the practice of placing a pin in the fractured bone to guide it back into place and hold it steady, according to Healthline. Skeletal traction is mostly used to treat fractures of the thigh bone, also known as the femur.

After placing the pin to the fractured bone, weights that exert a slow and gentle pull are applied to the pin, explains Healthline. Skeletal traction is done under a spinal block or general anaesthetic to minimize pain during the procedure. A special bed is used to encourage traction and give nurses easy time to offer care to the patient.