Body Mechanics

Question 1

What are body mechanics?

Answer 1

Coordinated efforts of musculoskeletal and nervous systems to maintain body alignment, balance and posture during lifting, bending, moving and performing daily activities.

Question 2

Why practice proper body mechanics?

Answer 2

• to prevent injury in ourselves, coworkers, patients
• reduce fatigue in body muscles
• make a habit of good body mechanics

Question 3

Body Alignment

Answer 3

• relationship of one body part to another

- correct alignment reduces stress and injury, creates balance

Question 4

Wide Base Support

Answer 4

• feet shoulder width apart
• weight evenly distributed
• body aligned and balanced
• knees slightly flexed

Question 5

Principles of Body Mechanics

Answer 5

1. Assess the person or object to be moved
2. Select best technique for this task
3. Prepare your body for the lift
4. Work at a comfortable height
5. Balance object above the base of support
6. Use smooth coordinated movements
7. Face direction of the task

Question 6

Tips for Good Body Mechanics

Answer 6

• avoid unnecessary bending and reaching
• turn your body as one whole unit when changing direction
• whole hand grip is more efficient than fingers
• use momentum
• squat do not stoop

Question 7

Ways to Reduce Risks

Answer 7

1. Exercise
   - strengthen, stretch, mobility
2. Nutrition
3. Rest
   - well rested body, functions more efficiently