PTA Program Unit 4 Lab Body Mechanics

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary reason for keeping your center of gravity close to the object being lifted?

To decrease lifting time
To conserve energy when lifting
To enhance lifting speed
To maintain balance and stability (correct)

Which body position is recommended for a deep squat lift?

Hips below the level of the knees (correct)
Hips only flexed slightly
Hips level with the knees
Hips above the level of the knees

When lifting, which action is advised to avoid strain on the lumbar spine?

Maintain a straight leg position
Pivot your feet instead of twisting (correct)
Simultaneous trunk flexion with rotation
Use a wide grip on the lifted object

Why is it important to mentally and physically prepare before lifting an object?

To reduce the risk of injury (C) Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you are lifting a heavy object with multiple helpers?

Have one person in charge and everyone be informed (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which technique should be used for lifting light items off the floor?

Golfer's lift (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of a power lift?

Hips remain above the level of the knees (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct approach when pushing or pulling an object?

Use a crouched position with flexed knees (A) Signup and view all the answers

When using the stoop lift technique, how should the object be lifted?

By using one arm while leaning to one side (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical habit to develop before lifting to prevent injuries?

Performing gentle stretches and warming up (D) Signup and view all the answers

What technique should be avoided when moving patients with surgical precautions?

Rocking the patient (B) Signup and view all the answers

When reaching overhead, what is the recommended practice?

Use a step stool to get closer (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is essential for maintaining proper posture while sitting?

Using a lumbar roll (B) Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when assisting a recumbent patient?

Sit them up first or scoot them close (C) Signup and view all the answers

Prolonged standing or sitting can lead to what issue?

Muscle fatigue and discomfort (B) Signup and view all the answers

What should be included in a proper sleeping posture?

Placing a pillow between the knees (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of keeping your center of gravity (COG) over your base of support (BOS)?

It enhances balance and stability (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to maintain proper lordosis in the spine?

It promotes proper alignment and reduces strain (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which action is NOT recommended for maintaining proper posture while standing?

Rounding your back (D) Signup and view all the answers

During a movement, what does rocking a patient help to overcome?

Inertia (C) Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

Learner Objectives

Identify principles of proper body mechanics.
Discuss the significance of good body mechanics and correct posture.

Principles of Body Mechanics

Prepare mentally and physically for activities; rearrange items and seek assistance as needed.
Positioning should be close to the object for effective leverage.
Keep a wide base of support (BOS) and maintain vertical gravity line within it.
Keep the center of gravity (COG) near the object or patient.
Utilize strong muscles, specifically biceps, quadriceps, and glutes, to ensure lifting and carrying without compromising spine alignment.
Prefer rolling, pushing, pulling, or sliding over lifting when feasible.
Avoid trunk flexion combined with rotation while lifting to protect the lumbar spine.
Recognize personal physical limitations and avoid overexertion.
Warm up with gentle stretches to prepare the back before lifting tasks.
For multiple helpers during a lift, designate a lead person and ensure a coordinated effort.
Pivot feet instead of twisting the trunk during lifts to maintain safety.

Lifting Techniques

Deep Squat Lift: Hips below knees; suitable for lifting heavy items from the floor.
Power Lift: Hips above knees; ideal for lifting heavy objects from a seated position.
Straight Leg Lift: Knees can be straight or slightly bent; used for items like groceries.
Golfer's Lift: Technique for lifting light objects off the floor with one leg behind, beneficial for precision.
Half Kneeling Lift (Tripod): Effective for picking up objects close to the ground, like a child or bag.
Traditional Lift: Not recommended; similar to deep squat, but with less bend.
Stoop Lift: One-armed lift from the side; useful for objects like a suitcase.

Pushing, Pulling, Reaching, and Carrying

Employ a crouched posture with flexed hips and knees for efficiency.
Direct push or pull forces should align parallel to object movement.
Initiate movement with a 'rocking' motion to overcome inertia; caution against rocking for patients with surgical precautions.
Use step stools for reaching overhead; maintain appropriate COG and avoid twisting.
Assist recumbent patients by scooting them closer before performing lifts.

Principles of Proper Posture

Maintain lordosis in the cervical and lumbar regions.
Sit and stand with aligned posture; avoid back rounding and slouching.
Position the head over the feet with normal spinal curves and engage the transverse abdominis.
Limit prolonged standing or sitting to prevent fatigue.
Utilize a lumbar roll for support while seated; proper lumbar support influences overall alignment.
For sleep, one pillow for the head and/or cervical roll with additional knee support is recommended for proper spinal alignment.