What kind of traction does Russell's traction utilize?

Russell's traction specifically involves the use of skin traction on the lower limbs, combined with an attached sling that assists in maintaining proper alignment and positioning of the injured leg. This method is particularly effective for managing fractures of the femur and knee injuries, as it helps to stabilize the leg and reduce pain while allowing for a certain degree of movement.

The use of a sling in conjunction with skin traction is crucial, as it supports the knee and redistributes forces effectively along the length of the affected limb. This dual mechanism helps prevent complications such as muscle atrophy and allows for better circulation compared to other traction methods.

In contrast, other traction techniques either focus exclusively on the upper limbs or employ different principles that do not include slings or skin traction specifically for the lower limbs. For instance, skeletal traction involves direct insertion of hardware into the bone, whereas non-weight-bearing traction typically refers to spinal injuries and does not relate to Russell's method. Thus, the characteristics of Russell's traction align perfectly with its designation as utilizing skin traction on the lower limbs with an attached sling.