Final answer:
Manual traction is where a physician uses hands to gently pull a patient's limb or head, which is different from mechanical traction that uses equipment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of traction where a physician uses their hands to gently pull on a patient's limb or head is known as manual traction. Unlike mechanical traction systems that involve equipment like wires, weights, and pulleys to apply a pulling force to the affected area, manual traction relies on the controlled force applied by the physician. This form of traction is often used during physical therapy sessions to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and facilitate healing in patients with musculoskeletal conditions.