• Korean Journal of Acupuncture
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• 제29권2호
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• pp.166-178
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• 2012

Objectives : This study was purposed to investigate the possibility of traction therapy as treatment method of scoliosis, of which occurrence rate was increasing with teenagers in Korea. Methods : 63 literatures, history, classification, and effectiveness of traction therapy were reviewed and the occurrences rate of scoliosis with teenagers in Korea was investigated. Results : Traction therapy as a treatment method on scoliosis, was originally developed by Hippocrates(460~385 BC), based on the historical record. Traction therapy is classified according to the tools engaged, the postures, the traction methods, and the areas for traction. The opinions on the effect of traction as treatment method were different depending on whether it is in Korea or outside of the country. Within the country, 75% of reports were positive on the effects of traction therapy, while outside of the country, about 74% of reports were negative. On the other hand, the occurrence rates of scoliosis with teenagers in Korea were increasing from 1.46%(1977) to 11.08%(2008). Conclusions : Unfortunately the effects of traction therapy on scoliosis were unclear but it seems to be different in the effects of manipulative therapy and mechanical or apparatus traction therapy. Systematic studies on traction therapy are needed, because of the increasing rate of scoliosis in Korea with teenagers.