The Importance of Posture and Body Mechanics

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With 80% of the adult population having low back pain at some point in their life and 90% of those cases being a recurrent problem, it is extremely important to educate clients on these statistics and teach them proper posture and body mechanics. If people knew there is a 300% increase in intra-disc pressure within the first three hours of the day, they would probably think more about their additional taxing habits. This is important information for everyone, but especially vital for someone who already has faulty posture and poor body mechanics. The accumulation of habitually bad posture wears on the ligaments, discs, and muscles that support the natural alignment of the spine. Knowing what causes back pain, becoming aware of your own postural habits and body mechanics, and then correcting them will prevent work-related injuries, prevent painful disc herniation, maintain range of motion and functionality at the spine, and ultimately, promote engagement in occupations. 

 As an OT, the main outcome of any intervention is to help the client return to or improve their ability to engage in their occupations of choice. Sometimes, literally getting them back to work! I would use myself or someone else as a visual aid while explaining how to properly grab something off the ground without putting any additional stress on the spine, by starting in a widened stance, keeping my back straight, bending at the knees, and lifting with both hands. After learning the basics, I would have them practice with their own occupations, whether that is practicing how to properly lift a laundry basket or practicing the slouch- overcorrecting technique at their desk to help them become aware of their unconscious posture and create new habits.

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