System of contraction
The System of Traction according to Van Zuilichem is only an aid to apply in a simple and comfortable way traction to the lumbar and thoracic spine in one-, two-, and three dimensional direction, taking into account the possibilities of the patient and the aims the therapist has set for himself.
By way of fixation and adjusting, the structures in question can be affected, so that in any starting position one can apply traction as segmental as possible. There are three basic starting points, that is lying on the back, the side, and the abdomen. From these stating points flexion, extension, lateroflexion, rotations or combinations of these can be applied to the spine.
The position of the spine is determined by the diagnosis, the. level, the structures to be affected, the techniques to be applied etc.
One of the most important starting points is that the physiological respiration is retained so that an increase of the intra-abdominal pressure is avoided. The manual concept offers the patient the possibility of influencing the amount of traction force and the manner. The haptonomic aspect can be put to maximal use. Maximal relaxation is necessary for an adequate traction. The small physical burden both for the patient and for the therapist, the comfortable fit, the quick application, the possibility of changing the starting positions relatively easy, the possibility of using every table, both in practice and in an out-patient clinic, the manageable size of it, and the fact that it always fits, make this spinal system of traction an extension piece of the hands of the therapist in question.
The utility of the system of traction with its diversities of possibilities of application largely depends on the creativity of the therapist.
The idea of developing this system of traction springs from the discontent at the limitations of the existing possibilities of traction in changing circumstances. After some time of experimenting with materials, techniques and indications, the system got its present shape by using it in practice.
It is made of durable, inextensible canvas, steel rings, adhesive tape, stainless steel blocks and inextensible synthetic cord.
It consists of:
- a thoracic fixation belt ;
- a lumbar traction belt ;
- a pulley/cord traction-unit ;
- a manipulation-wedge;
- an extension piece for the fixation belt.
The system can be linked up with an electric traction-unit, although the system has been developed primarily for the application of manual tractions.
The techniques in writing can be supplied.
If required, a video presentation can be arranged.
