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Principles of
body mechanics
By
Mr. M. Shivanandha
Reddy
INTRODUCTION
Some of the most common injuries
sustained by members of the health care
team are severe musculoskeletal strains.
Many injuries can be avoided by the
conscious use of proper body mechanics
when performing physical work.
DEFINITION
Body mechanics the term used to describe
the efficient, coordinated, and safe use of
the body to move objects and carry out
the Activities of Daily Living (ADL’s).
PURPOSES
• To maintain good balance.
• To reduce the energy required.
• To avoid excessive fatigue.
• To avoid muscle strains or tears.
• To avoid skeletal injuries.
• To avoid injury to the patient.
• To avoid injury to assisting staff members
Principles of Body Mechanics
• The wider the base of support, the
greater the stability.
• The lower the centre of gravity, the
greater the stability.
• The equilibrium of an object is
maintained as long as the line of
gravity passes through its base of support.
Principles of Body Mechanics
•Facing the direction of movement prevents
abnormal twisting of the spine.
Principles of Body Mechanics
• Dividing balanced activity between arms
and legs reduces the risk of back injury.
•It is easier to pull, push, or roll an object
than it is to lift it .
•Movements should be smooth and
coordinated rather than jerky
Principles of Body Mechanics
•When friction is reduced between the object
to be moved and the surface on which it is
moved, less force is required to move it.
•Less energy or force is required to keep an
object moving than it is to start and stop it.
•Use the arm and leg muscles as much as
possible, the back muscles as little as
possible
Principles of Body Mechanics
• Keep the work as close as possible to
your body. It puts less of a strain on your
back, legs, and arms
• Keep the work at a comfortable height to
avoid excessive bending at the waist.
• Keep your body in good physical
condition to reduce the chance of injury.
Principles of Body Mechanics
• Rest between periods of work promotes
work endurance
Principles of body mechanics
Principles of body mechanics
Principles of body mechanics