Chapter 8: Key Terms Body Mechanics, Mobility, & Patient Positions

Abduction

Movement of an arm or leg away from the midline of the body

Adduction

Movement of an arm or leg toward the midline of the body (ADDING TO THE BODY)

Alignment

The proper relationship or position of body parts in relation to one another

Base of Support

A stable stance with the feet shoulder - width apart that enhances balance

Body Mechanics

The study of muscle action and body posture used to prevent injury and maintain proper body alignment

Compartment Syndrome

Dangerous pressure build up in an extremity when inelastic fascia restricts blood vessels, nerves and maintain tissue

Contracture

Permanent shortening or tightening of a muscle, limiting joint mobility

Disuse Syndrome

Deterioration of body systems resulting from prolonged inactivity or immobility

Dorsal (Supine) Position

Patient lies flat on the back, face upward

Dorsal Recumbent Position

Patient lies on the back with knees flexed and feet flat on the bed

Dorsiflexion

Backward flexion of the hand or foot toward the dorsal surface

Ergonomics

Science of matching workplace conditions to worker capabilities to prevent musculoskeletal injuries

Extension

Movement that increases the angle between two adjoining bones (straightening)

Flexion

Movement that decreases the angle between two adjoining bones (bending)

Supination

Rotation of the forearm/hand so the palm faces upward

Pronation

Rotation of the forearm/hand so the palm faces downward

Fowlers Position

Head of the bed (HOB) elevated 45-60 degrees; promoting lung expansion and comfort

Semi-Fowlers Position

Head of the bed (HOB) elevated approximately 30 degrees

Genupectoral Position

Patient kneels with chest resting in the bed, abdomen raised, head turned to the side, arms flexed

Hyperextension

Excessive extension of a joint beyond its normal range

Immobility

The inability to move about freely

Joint

Ant point where two or more bones meet, allowing movement

Lithotomy Position

Supine position with hips and knees flexed, thighs abducted and extremely rotated; feet often in stirrups

Mobility

A persons capability to move independently from place to place

Orthopneic Position

Patient sits upright (90 degrees) or leans forward over a table/pillow to ease breathing

Prone Position

Patient lies face down, flat on the abdomen

Range of Motion (ROM)

The full movement potential of a joint, carried out in its natural directions

Trendelenburg’s Position

Patient lies on an inclined plane with the head lower than the body and legs