n. the use of an opposing force to balance that being applied during *traction, when a strong continuous pull is applied, for example, to a limb so that broken bones can be kept in alignment during healing.
n. the application of a pulling force, especially as a means of counteracting the natural tension in the tissues surrounding a broken bone (see countertraction), to produce correct alignment of the fragments. Considerable force, exerted with weights, ropes, and pulleys, may be necessary to ensure that a broken femur is kept correctly positioned during the early stages of healing. Traction is also used for the treatment of back pain by physiotherapists.... traction
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