Body Mechanics and Posture Exam 1 Flashcards
Body Mechanics
using body efficiently to produce motion that is safe; these movements help protect the patient and the therapist
Principles of body mechanics
Plan ahead, remain close to object, use largest and strongest muscles of your arms, legs and trunk to lift, push, pull or carry. Widen your base. Use short lever arm. Maintain spine, bend at hips and knees. avoid twisting, maintain COG.
guidelines to reduce stress producing positions
Alter posture frequently, avoid prolonged standing or sitting, avoid bending for activities below waist, carry object close to COG
Posture
The relative disposition of the body at one moment. Positions of the joints of the body at that time.
Correct Posture
Position in which minimum stress is applied to each joint. Body weight over BOS.
Faulty Posture
Any position that increases stress to the joint. Inefficient balance over BOS.
Normal Posture
Primary curves at birth (sacral and thoracic) turn into secondary curves (cervical and lumbar)
Where is your COG
Sacral vertebrae 2
Line for Posture
Ear lobes > Shoulder > Greater trochanter > posterior patella > anterior lateral malleolus
Pathology
Ideal posture= optimal functioning. Impaired posture = pain/dysfunction
Modifiable causes
muscle length/strength, joint ROM, positioning, spasms
Non-modifiable causes
Structural
Lordosis
Excessive anterior curve of spine
Kyphosis
Excessive posterior curvature
Scoliosis
Lateral curvature of the spine
