Body segments and masses - Lab 1

Each lab group needs:

• Texts (1 copy of each):
  • Duesterhaus Minor, M. A., & Duesterhaus Minor, S. (1999). Patient care skills (4th ed.). Stamford, CN: Appleton & Lange.
    check the index for page references relevant to "Stairs, ascending and descending."

  • Smith, L.K., Weiss, E.L. & Lehmkuhl, L.D. (1996). Brunnstrom's clinical kinesiology (5th ed.). Philadelphia: F.A. Davis.
    Read pages 49-56 to prepare for lab.

• gait belt

• access to cart with 5 - 20 pound weights

---

1. When a person assumes "anatomic position" (Smith, Weiss, & Lehmkuhl, 1996, p.2), the body's center of gravity is located at the level of the second sacral vertebra (S2). The posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) is good surface landmark for this vertebral level. Use information from your text (Smith, Weiss, & Lehmkuhl, 1996, p.267) to palpate the PSIS.

2. Hold a weight in one hand while you stand with your feet close together.
   • How does adding a weight affect the center of gravity of the "body-plus-weight" mass?

   • How does holding a weight affect a person's standing posture?

   Repeat the "experiment" with the weight held at your side, in front of the body, and with the shoulder abducted 90 degrees.

   In this lab experiment, we use relatively large weights and a relatively small base of support to emphasize the postural adjustments that occur. We continually adjust our posture during daily activities when, for instance, we place a pot on a stove or counter top, place folded laundry in a drawer or cabinet, or lift large objects.

3. Work with a partner, and assume that your partner is a "patient" who may bear full weight on both lower extremities, but must be assisted to descend a flight of stairs. You may assume that your patient can reach to and hold one but not both handrails as he or she descends the stairs. You may even practice in one of the building's stairwells.

   Arrive at decisions regarding the following:

   • Where should you (the therapist) stand?
   • Where do you place your feet?
   • Where do you place your hands on your patient to guard or assist?

   You may this diagram to illustrate your solution to the question of the therapist's foot placement. The footprints indicate the patient's initial foot placement. The arrow indicates the direction in which the stairs descend. Draw similar footprints to specify the therapist's position. Justify your decisions.

---

Last updated 8-21-01 © Dave Thompson PT
return to PHTH/OCTH 7143 lab schedule