Body Mechanics

Question 1

Describe what body alignment is

Answer 1

relationship of one body part to another body part along a horizontal or vertical line

Question 2

What does body alignment do?

Answer 2

corrects alignment

reduces strain on musculoskeletal structures maintains muscle tone and balance

Question 3

How is body balance (centre of gravity) achieved?

Answer 3

when a relatively low centre of gravity is balanced over a wide stable base of support and a line falls from the centre of gravity vertically through the base of support

Question 4

What is friction?

Answer 4

resistance encountered during the act of rubbing one object against another

Question 5

What are some things that can be used to reduce friction?

Answer 5

slider sheet

slide board

transfer board

use some of the patients strength and mobility to assist

Question 6

Define body mechanics

Answer 6

is the efficient, coordinated and safe use of one’s body to move and maintain balance during activity

Question 7

What are the 3 principles of body mechanics

Answer 7

1. base of support
2. body alignment
3. centre of gravity

Question 8

How should you provide a wide base of support?

Answer 8

set feet shoulder width apart

Question 9

Name 4 other principles of body mechanics

Answer 9

1. bend at knees and hips
2. face direction of movement
3. dividing between arms and legs
4. rolling, turning and pivoting

Question 10

Name 3 factors that could increase the risk of back strain

Answer 10

1. stress
2. fatigue
3. obesity

Question 11

At what weight should you not lift an object?

Answer 11

if it’s weight is 35% or more of your body weight

Question 12

When does muscle strength peak?

Answer 12

adulthood

Question 13

When are bones softer and pliable and head is large making balance difficult?

Answer 13

infants

Question 14

What lifecycle stage is it when you gain gross motor control followed by fine motor control?

Answer 14

childhood

Question 15

What stage of the lifecycle are you in when there is a relaxation in ligaments, centre of balance is shifted backwards?

Answer 15

pregnancy

Question 16

What stage of the lifecycle are you in when there is rapid growth and you be awkward?

Answer 16

adolesence

Question 17

What life cycle stage are you at when there is less muscle bulk and strength, blunted reflexes leading to sway in posture?

Answer 17

older adulthood

Question 18

What life cycle stage are you at when there is a decrease in bone mass and density, loss of height, cartilage decreases?

Answer 18

adulthood