Traction Splints for EMS: Types, Uses and How to Choose

A traction splint applies steady, in-line pull to a suspected femur fracture. That pull eases pain and muscle spasm, steadies the limb, and helps limit further soft-tissue and neurovascular injury while you move and transport the patient. It is one of the few items on a rig built for a single injury, so it pays to know which type your crew carries and why.

This guide covers the two main designs, when to use one, when traction splinting may not be appropriate, and what to check before you buy.

Quick takeaways

• There are two main designs: bipolar (Hare-style) and unipolar (Sager-style).

• Traction splints are meant for isolated, closed midshaft femur fractures.

• Do not use one if you suspect a pelvic, hip, knee, or lower-leg injury on the same side.

• Judge a splint on application speed, size range, strap quality, and documentation, not price alone.

What a traction splint actually does

The thigh muscles are strong. When the femur breaks, they contract and pull the bone ends past each other. That overlap is a big part of why these fractures hurt so much, and it is why the leg often looks shorter and rotated.

A traction splint counters that pull. It anchors against the pelvis (the ischial area) and applies tension at the ankle. The bone ends move closer to their normal length, spasm eases, and the leg is much easier to keep steady on the move to the stretcher and into the ambulance. Your local protocols and medical direction decide when and how you apply it, so treat this guide as background, not a replacement for them.

Types of traction splints

Hare traction splint: where it fits

The Hare traction splint is one of the most widely taught designs. Two rails run alongside the leg, an ischial pad sits at the top, and an ankle hitch connects to the tensioning mechanism at the bottom. Because the frame is rigid and sits outside the leg, it is stable once applied, and the steps are easy to teach and repeat. The trade-off is size: it takes more room on a rig than a unipolar splint. It also has a limit with high fractures. If the break is in the proximal shaft, the ischial pad can end up directly under it, which makes the Hare less effective there. A Sager sits against the ischial tuberosity and handles proximal fractures better, and one Sager can be used for bilateral femur fractures.

Many current bipolar splints keep that layout and use a telescoping frame so one device covers a range of leg lengths.

When to use one, and when not to

Typical indication

• A suspected isolated, closed midshaft femur fracture, usually with pain, deformity, swelling, or a visibly shortened leg.

Common contraindications

• Suspected pelvic fracture

• Hip or knee injury on the same leg

• Injury to the lower leg, ankle or foot where the hitch attaches

• Partial amputation or avulsion with bone separation

Always check distal pulse, motion, and sensation before and after you apply the splint, and document both. If your protocol differs from the list above, follow your protocol.

How to choose a traction splint for your crew

A spec sheet will give you dimensions. It will not tell you whether a newer EMT can find the ankle hitch, set the length, and tension the straps in low-light and time-critical prehospital settings. These are the questions worth asking:

• How fast can someone apply it? 

Printed directions on the straps help a lot when you are working under pressure or with a partner who rarely uses the device.

• What size range does it cover? 

Check the minimum and maximum length and the patient size it supports. Adjustment should be quick and should lock firmly.

• How secure is the ankle hitch? 

A hitch that slips under tension defeats the purpose, so look at the strap material and the hardware.

• How much space does it take? 

Measure your compartment. A great splint that does not fit in the bag does not get used.

• Is the kit complete? 

Leg straps, ankle straps, a carrying case, and written instructions should all come in the box.

• Can you review the documentation first? 

Spec sheets and instructions should be available before you order, so your training officer can compare them against your protocol.

• Can you buy in quantity? 

If you are equipping several units, ask about dealer or bulk options.

Run the same checklist on every splint you are comparing. Differences usually show up quickly.

Where this adult traction splint fits

If you want a concrete example to measure against that checklist, the adult traction splint available at LINE2EMS has a two-rail, telescoping tubular aluminum frame, with length adjusted by loosening the knurled sleeves on each side. Wide elastic support straps hold the leg in the frame, and directions are printed directly on the nylon leg straps. The kit includes four leg straps, adjustable ankle straps, a carrying case, and instructions. Per the spec sheet, the frame collapses for storage, and the heel stand lets you check pedal pulses without disturbing the injured leg.

Faqs

What is a traction splint used for? 

It stabilizes a suspected midshaft femur fracture by applying in-line traction, which reduces pain and muscle spasm and helps protect nearby nerves and vessels during transport.

What is the difference between a Hare and a Sager traction splint? 

A Hare splint is bipolar, with two rails and an ischial pad. A Sager splint is unipolar, with a single shaft along the inner thigh. The Sager is lighter and more compact. The Sager also works for bilateral femur fractures and handles fractures high on the shaft better than the Hare.

When should you not use a traction splint? 

Avoid it with suspected pelvic, hip, knee or lower-leg injuries on the same side, and with partial amputations where bone is separated. Follow local protocol.

Can a traction splint be used on children? 

An adult splint is sized for adult patients. For pediatric patients, use a device made for them and follow your protocol.

Next step

Pull up the spec sheet and instructions for the splint you are considering, run it through the checklist above, and have your crew practice an application before it goes on a truck. If you are ready to compare, view the adult traction splint and download the documents first.