Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care for a limb that becomes cold, pale, blue, or suddenly difficult to move, especially when accompanied by severe pain or loss of sensation.
These symptoms may indicate a circulation or major nerve problem rather than an expected reaction to traction.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent medical advice if you develop:
New or persistent numbness or weakness
Severe or steadily increasing pain
New major swelling or inability to use the limb
Loss of balance or repeated giving way after treatment
The article also says
Contact your healthcare team routinely if soreness lasts longer than expected, symptoms repeatedly flare after treatment, or traction is not helping you perform everyday activities.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Lateral traction. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.