Body Mechanics and Posture

Body mechanics is referred to as the way we move our bodies and body parts during everyday life in order to protect our bodies from pain and injury. To have good body mechanics means to have good posture and good body alignment when lifting or moving. Posture is defined as the relationship of our body parts to each other and to our base of support. It is important to teach good body mechanics and posture to clients because it minimizes the risk of injury, helps prevent pain, allows internal organs to function properly, and helps promote overall long term health.

 In clients who work in manual labor or lift heavy objects, I would teach proper lifting technique. Using proper lifting techniques would help prevent injury and avoid pain. In order to properly lift a heavy object, the client should get as close as possible to the object he or she intends to lift. They should get a firm grip on the object using their hands and fingers. The client should keep their back as straight as possible and keep their feet flat on the ground, shoulders length apart. This provides a stable base of support. The client should then bend at the hips and knees, keeping the load as close to the trunk as possible. I would also encourage the client to ask for help when needed and to lift smaller loads when possible.

 In clients who work in an office or sit for long periods of time, I would explain the benefits of posterior sitting. In posterior sitting, the pelvis is in neutral and there is an open angle between the torso and the thighs. In other words, the bottom is situated at the back of the seat with the back against the backrest. In this position, the center of gravity is behind the ischial tuberosities and lumbar lordosis is reduced. I would also encourage the client to change positions often and to turn their body by moving their feet instead of twisting at the waist. I may also suggest using a cushion or adapted chair to help relieve pressure on the lower back.