Complications of traction
Immobility during traction may result in pressure ulcers, muscle atrophy, weakness, contractures, and osteoporosis.
Immobility can also cause:
gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances such as constipation
urinary problems, including stasis and calculi
respiratory problems, such as stasis of secretions and hypostatic pneumonia
circulatory disturbances, including stasis and thrombophlebitis.
Prolonged immobility, especially after traumatic injury, may promote depression or other emotional disturbances. Skeletal traction may cause osteomyelitis originating at the pin or wire sites.