Proper Body Mechanics: Move the Right Way

Moving your body in “smart” ways helps save energy. It also helps protect you from the risk of injuring yourself.

Standing Up

  • To stand, scoot to the edge of the chair.
  • Lean forward slightly so your nose is over your toes and breathe in.
  • As you breathe out, push yourself up using your arms.
  • Remember, it can be harder to get in and out chairs that are low, deep, or soft.

Climbing Stairs

  • Breathe in before taking the first step.
  • As you breathe out, put your leg on the step and push yourself up to the next step.
  • Pause on the step and breathe in.
  • Breathe out every time you step up.
  • If you’re carrying oxygen, try using a portable unit with a shoulder or hip strap, or put it in a backpack.

Lifting and Carrying

  • Get close to the object you are lifting.
  • Bend at the hips and knees if you need to.
  • Breathe in and get a good grip.
  • Breathe out as you lift, using your legs to raise yourself and the object (if you had to pick it up from a lower surface.)
  • Carry the load close to your body.

Pushing and Pulling

  • When you push something, move your whole body along with the object.
  • For example, you can hold your vacuum cleaner with both hands and then walk with it.
  • Pulling can be easier than pushing sometimes.

Getting into and out of Bed

  • When you are getting into bed, sit on the edge of the bed as you breathe out.
  • Take a deep breath in, and and as you breathe out lay down on your side.
  • When you are getting out of bed, roll onto your side facing the outer edge of the bed.
  • Take a deep breath in and as you breathe out, press down with your arms to raise your body.
  • Don’t twist your trunk when getting in and out of bed, make sure to move your body as one unit.

If you are having any difficulty performing the above activities, a physical therapist can help! Call Lifeline Therapy today to schedule your appointment.

 

Latest Posts

Subscription Icon

Subscribe to our Newsletter

There is always something exciting happening at Lifeline. Stay up to speed on the latest and greatest with our Lifeline newsletter.

Request an appointment at Lifeline

Our staff will get back to you within 24-48 hours of receiving your request.