Cervical and Lumbar Curvature

Vertebral Curvatures

• The normal lumbar curve can be referred to as “concave posteriorly” when viewed posteriorly.
• The cervical and lumbar curves are convex anteriorly and are called lordotic curves.
• The thoracic and pelvic curves are concave anteriorly and are called kyphotic curves.

Abnormal Curvatures

• Lordosis is an exaggerated lumbar curvature, also known as “swayback”, characterized by an increase in anterior convexity or posterior concavity.
• Kyphosis is an exaggerated thoracic curvature, also known as “humpback” or “hunchback”, characterized by an increase in anterior concavity or posterior convexity.
• Scoliosis is a lateral curvature, characterized by an S-shaped vertebral column, which can cause the vertebrae to rotate toward the concavity.

Body Mechanism

• The principle of proper body alignment, movement, and balance involves three concepts: Base of Support (BOS), Center of Gravity (COG), and Line of Gravity (LOG).
• Base of Support (BOS) is the portion of the body in contact with the floor.
• Center of Gravity (COG) is the point at which the body's weight is evenly distributed and balanced.
• Line of Gravity (LOG) is an imaginary vertical line passing through the center of gravity, which falls within the BOS and indicates a stable and balanced position.

Body Mechanics

• Body mechanics refers to the ways we move as we go about our daily lives, including how we hold our bodies when we sit, stand, lift, carry, bend, and sleep.
• Poor body mechanics can cause back problems and muscle strain.
• Muscle strain occurs when muscle fibers are overstretched or torn, typically due to excessive force, overuse, or improper use.
• Symptoms of muscle strain include pain, swelling, bruising, and limited movement.

Correct Upright Posture

• Stand with feet 4-8 inches apart.
• Head erect, chin in.
• Abdomen up, buttocks in.
• Chest out, stomach in.
• Knees slightly bent.

Rules of Body Mechanics

• Provide a broad base of support.
• Work at a comfortable height.
• When lifting, bend at the hips and knees and keep your back straight.
• Keep your load well balanced and close to your body.
• Roll or push a heavy object instead of pulling or lifting.

Body Positions

• Supine: Patient is flat on their back.
• Prone: Patient lies face down.
• Lateral (or lateral decubitus or lateral recumbent): Patient is side-lying.
• Sims position: Semi-prone position, used to aid in rectal catheterization.
• Fowler's position: Seated in a semi-sitting position, with the head higher than the feet, used for patients with respiratory distress.
• Trendelenburg position: The bed is inclined with the patient's head lower than the rest of the body, used for patients suffering from shock.
• Lithotomy position: Used for surgical procedures and medical examinations involving the pelvis and lower abdomen, as well as childbirth.