Medical
Body mechanics is a term used to describe the ways we move as we go about our daily lives. It includes how we hold our bodies when we sit, stand, lift, carry, bend, and sleep. Poor body mechanics are often the cause of back problems. When we don’t move correctly and safely, the spine is subjected to abnormal stresses that over time can lead to degeneration of spinal structures like discs and joints, injury, and unnecessary wear and tear.
That is why it is so important to learn the principals of proper body mechanics. But don’t worry, it’s not complicated. And once you get used to them, they can easily be incorporated into your daily life. You will be glad you learned them as they can save you from back pain and discomfort.
Posture
We have all been told since childhood to “stand up straight”. But it’s easy to get into bad habits. Good body mechanics are based on good posture. Good posture means the spine is in a “neutral” position not too rounded forward and not arched back too far. But what does good posture look like?
It’s easy, follow these few steps:
Stand with your feet apart.
Create a small hallow in your lower back by tucking the tailbone in and tilting your pelvic bone slightly forward. This is done by tightening the muscles of the buttocks and thus, rotating the pelvis into the neutral position. Be careful not to arch too much.
Pull the shoulders back and lift your chest.
Lift your chin until it is level and relax your jaw and mouth.
That’s it, proper posture! Feel how balanced the spine is? Very little energy is now required to keep it that way. Practice this position until it becomes second nature.
Being aware of your posture during all of your daily activities is the best way to ensure you are using good body mechanics.
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