Body Mechanics

Question 1

After the back has been injured once…

Answer 1

it will always be more susceptible to injury

Question 2

How does proper posture help us throughout the day?

Answer 2

Reduces some repetitive stress.

Question 3

What is proper posture?3

Answer 3

Lumbar curve
Ears over shoulder
hips over ankles.

Question 4

What is proper sitting posture? 4

Answer 4

Sitting upright.
head forward
support low back (with lumber roll if necessary)
Hips level w knees.

Question 5

What are the 5 cardinal rules of body mechanics?

Answer 5

1. keep the load close
2. Create an appropriate base of support
3. Use isometric contractions of the trunk
4. Lift with legs
5. Do not twist

Question 6

What is the goal of proper body mechanics when it comes to lifting?

Answer 6

Keep the center of mass of the object being lifted close to the body.
Align body so that the object will maintain its close position throughout the movement

Question 7

How do you form a proper base of support?

What do you avoid when changing base of support during an activity?

Answer 7

1. The base of support should provide a solid foundation to help maintain balance.
   Keep the feet wide from side to side.
   And one slightly in front of the other.
2. When changing base of support during an activity, avoid crossing legs or feet.

Question 8

How do you set up a lift?
Why do you use isometric contractions to set up the trunk?
What do you avoid in isometric contraction

Answer 8

1. Move into position
2. Set the trunk (abdominal and back extensor isometrics)
   Three. Look forward

Using isometric contractions…
Prevents the spine from flexing or extending during the lifting and lowering activity
Avoid Valsalva maneuver–don’t bear down (close the glottis off). Puts those with HPT at higher risk.

Question 9

Describe the Valsalva maneuver.

What does it do throughout the body?3

Answer 9

The closing of the glottis during heavy exertion

1. Intra-abdominal pressure
2. Intrathoracic pressure
3. Can result in a rapid increase in blood pressure

Question 10

What are three things to consider before a lift?

Answer 10

1. Think before you lift (how are you lift? Is there a clear path?)
2. Test the load before lifting(assess the patient can be lifted safely. If not get another person or assistive device to help)
3. Communication (Timing prevents sudden or unexpected movements)

Question 11

Which is better pulling or pushing?
What is the best way to do it?4
With what muscles do you push and pull?

Answer 11

Pushing

1. Place one leg behind the other
2. Keep the knees bent and back straight
3. Keep abdominals tight
4. Avoid the Valsalva maneuver

Push and Pull with arms and legs use the big muscles.