Posture and Body Mechanics

Proper posture and good body mechanics are extremely important to an individual's wellbeing. One reason it is good to teach this is because poor posture can contribute to abnormal development of bones and muscles. Poor posture can also lead to decreased awareness of body positions due to sensory loss. Proper body mechanics can help with decreasing injury risks and back pain. Good posture promotes comfort and alignment, along with optimizing your vision and breathing.

One way I would teach proper posture and body mechanics is to use the broomstick demonstration. I would have the client place the broomstick behind their back and to make sure that it is touching their head, back, and bottom at all times as they perform various movements. This will ensure that everything is in good alignment. Another way I would do so is by providing modification to tasks such as reaching, pulling and pushing and turning to promote good body mechanics and avoid injury.