Abstract: A pelvic belt (10) to be worn by a patient whereby tension lines are connectable for the application of tractive force is provided with four pocketed zones (13) or so-called ilia crest sections therealong and two tension line connectors (20) respectively located adjacent alternate ones of said zones.

Abstract: Orthopaedic traction apparatus of the kind including a support structure carrying guides serving to direct an elongate flexible member between a patient and a suspended weight, the weight applying tractive force to the patient by way of the member, is improved by the provision of a safety mechanism of dynamic seat belt type operably connected between the support structure and the weight. The mechanism is preferably of a form having a belt arresting element operable in response to tilting from a predetermined orientation. Such a mechanism is suitably carried by a lever additionally acted on by the elongate member to maintain the mechanism operable unless the apparatus is mishandled at least in such a way as to release the member from tension. The member is preferably releasably connected to the patient by way of a device additionally allowing separate adjustment of the effective length of the member.