Body Positions // Body Mechanics Flashcards
supine
on your back (dorsal)
dorsal recumbent
supine position with extremities moderately flexed, legs may be extended
fowler’s
45-60 deg.
othropnic
90 deg.
sims
laying on left side with right knee and hip flexed
prone
on stomach (ventral)
knee-chest
PT’s weight is supported by the knees and chest, abdomen raised, head turned to one side and arms flexed
lithotomy
lying supine with hips and knees flexed, thighs abducted and rotated externally
trendelenburg
head low; body and legs elevated at an incline
semi-fowler’s
30 deg. // less than 45 deg.
provides adequate base of support
feet shoulder width apart
distribute weight evenly
align and balance weight on both feet
prevents hyperextension
flex knees slightly
helps straighten the lumbar curve of the spine; reduces strain
tilt pelvis forward moving buttocks inward, so that glutes are contracted
provides support and reduces strain
contract abs in and up
provides adequate lung expansion
hold chest up
maintain appropriate alignment of spine
keep head erect
most efficient body movement
use body mechanics in all activities
prevent unnecessary twisting
face your work area
less strain than lifting
push, slide, pull heavy objects
determine whether a lift needs 2 people
lift twice - mentally and physically
use step stool to reach object higher than your chest
do not lift higher than your chest // do not lift/reach above shoulders
