Transcript Body Mechanics

Body Mechanics
• Positions and movements used to
maintain proper posture and avoid
muscle and bone injuries.
• Back injury is the number one injury
experienced by health care workers
while they are on the job.
– Lift, transfer, or position patients.
Principles of Body Mechanics
• Body alignment
depends on the
correct positioning
of the head, back,
and limbs.
Principles of Body Mechanics
• The body performs better when it is in
alignment.
• Preserve the natural curves of the back.
• Proper standing position
– Feet flat on floor, about 6-10 inches apart.
– Back straight, knees flexed slightly.
Body Mechanics Failure
• Causes back problems
including acute strains,
sprains, disc strain and
bulge, disc herniation, and
fatigue.
• Prevention is the best cure
for back pain.
Key Components of Body Mechanics
• Keep feet a shoulder-width apart – wide base of
support.
• Always use two hands to move someone or
something.
• Face the direction in which you intend to move.
Never twist.
• Avoid unnecessary reaching.
• Keep your chin up and look straight ahead.
• Keep your shoulders back.
Key Components of Body Mechanics
(cont.)
• Bend at the hips and knees.
• Keep your back straight.
• Keep the object you are lifting
close to your body.
• Exhale when you are lifting or
exerting force.
• Tighten your abdominal muscles.
• Lift with your legs, not your back.
Key Components of Body Mechanics
(cont.)
• Push, pull, or slide instead of lifting.
• Pushing is the best technique for
moving something large.
• Use the weight of your body to help you
push or pull.
• Always ask for help whenever needed.
• Tell the patient what you are going to do
and ask for the patient’s help.
Ergonomics
• Promote the safety and well-being of a
person by adapting the environment and
using techniques to prevent injuries.
– Correct placement of furniture and equipment.
– Training in required muscle movements.
– Efforts to avoid repetitive motions.
– Awareness of the environment to prevent
injuries.
Ergonomics
• You spend a large portion of your day in the
work environment.
• You should be comfortable, use good
posture, and learn exercises to prevent
getting stiff and sore.
• Your chair, desk, and computer
must be adjusted to fit your
needs.
RMI
REPETITIVE MOTION INJURIES
What is RMI
• They are injuries caused by
REGULARLY
REPEATED
MOVEMENTS
RMI’s examples
• Work
– Doing the same physical tasks over and over
• Hobbies
– Knitting, sewing or playing musical instruments
• Sports
– Tennis, golf, baseball or bowling
RMI’s can affect
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Upper and lower arms & elbows
Wrists, hands and fingers
Shoulders and neck
Chest, abdomen and other areas
May occasionally affect lower limbs & back
Why learn about RMI’s
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They are very common
They can be or become serious
Learning about them can help you
Can be very costly to you and the company
Can affect or change your life style
Can be permanent
Motions that cause RMI’s
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Lifting - stacking, loading objects or boxes
Twisting - using a screwdriver or nut driver
Squeezing - clippers, scissors or other tools
Hammering, stapling or securing boxes
Finger and hand movements - pressing keys
Pushing and pulling - carts or racks
Sorry !
Using your brain
too much
is not a RMI
Basic types of RMI’s
• Tendonitis
• Tenosynovitis
• CTS - Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome
• Circulation Problems
Common Symptoms of RMI’s
• Numbness
• Tingling sensation, soreness or pain
• Difficulty in eating, driving & writing due to
weakness
• Skin that turns pale or cold
• Difficulty moving fingers, shoulder, elbow or
wrist
Ways to prevent RMI’s
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Report symptoms right away
Increase work gradually in a new job
Reduce repetitions
Change positions
Adjust chair, work surface, keyboard, etc.
Pace yourself
Elbows at right angles to keyboard
Wrist as straight as possible
Pad corners, use cushioned tools
Create a healthy workplace
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Report all symptoms as soon as possible
Suggest changes - improve comfort & safety
Follow all safety procedures
Use Proper Protective Equipment
Follow treatment plan at home & work
Remember
An RMI can be caused or made worse by
what you do OFF the job too.
Make changes in activities outside of work
too if necessary.
Staying healthy pays off for you and for the
company.