Principles of

body
mechanics
 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 an object
maintained as
of long is asthe line
gravity passes through its base
of 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