Because of this tightness it is not possible to position the bone correctly in the acetabulum. Also the tightness itself increases the child's pain. The first step in the treatment is to overcome the muscle tension. This is done by a procedure called traction. We place foam strips around the child's legs.
Special tape is applied and then the legs are wrapped with elastic bandages.
Ropes and weights are attached to the tapes on the child's legs. We then position the child with legs apart and body flat on the bed. Both legs are placed in traction to provide balance, but, different weight loads may be attached. We sometimes need to put a restraining vest on the child which will prvent him from turning or sitting except at mealtimes. Actually, it does not hurt the child.