The biomechanical frame of reference views the body as a machine made up of parts that can be impaired by disease or injury. It focuses on structural stability, range of motion, endurance, edema control, and strength through purposeful activities. The assumptions of this frame of reference are that purposeful activities can treat impairments, regaining function follows regaining impairments, the body needs rest then stress, and it is best suited for patients with an intact central nervous system.

1. BIOMECHANICAL FRAME
OF REFERENCE

2. INTRODUCTION:
• It is considered as a remedial approach focusing on
impairments that limit occupational performance.
• Individuals who have limitations in performing
occupations due to limitation in movements,
inadequate muscle strength, loss of endurance or other
biomechanical conditions are suitable to use this FOR.
• Goals are to prevent deterioration and maintain existing
movements for occupational performance, prevent
limitation in ROM and to prevent contractures and
edema.

3. INTRODUCTION:
• This FOR views body as a functioning machine, made up of
specific parts which may be damaged by disease or injury.
• Biomechanical FOR focuses on –a. Structural stability
b. Passive ROM
c. Low level endurance
d. Edema control
e. Strength
• This FOR can be used when the patient have intact CNS.

4. ASSUMPTIONS:
THE BIOMECHANICAL FRAME OF REFERENCE HAS 4
ASSUMPTIONS – BY DUTTON
1st ASSUMPTION: The belief that the purposeful activities
can be used to treat loss of range of motion, strength, and
endurance.
2nd ASSUMPTION : Is the belief that after ROM, strength,
and endurance regained, the patient automatically regains
function.

5. ASSUMPTIONS:
3rd ASSUMPTION: Is the principle of rest and stress.
First, the body must rest to heal itself. Then, the peripheral
structure must be stressed to regain range, strength and
endurance.
4th ASSUMPTION: Is the belief that the biomechanical
frame of reference is best suited for patients with an intact
CNS.

6. MERITIS:
• The biomechanical frame of reference makes good use of
media and equipment to promote physical function.
• It can be applied to a variety of creative and constructive
activities.
• It uses knowledge of activities analysis to good effect.
• It utilises the increased knowledge of anatomical,
physiological and kinaesthetic process in man.
• It has led to the development of specific techniques for
measuring movement, strength and endurance.