What Is Postural Care?

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Postural Care is any activity or intervention intended to protect body shape and change.

we know that people who spend long periods of time in a limited number of positions can develop body shape changes. such body shape changes are usually a combination of:

• altered spinal curvature 

• altered rib cage shape

• altered orientation of the pelvis

• contractures in the limbs, hands and feet 

• altered head position

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These changes can then lead to:

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• pain 

• difficulties with activities of daily living 

• further decrease in mobility 

• breathing problems 

• sleep problems

• pressure ulcers 

• constipation 

• increase support needs

• premature death 

 

The best defence against body shape changes is movement! therefore people who find it difficult to move are at the most risk of body shape changes. it is vitally important that people with movement problems are supported to adopt positions or postures that protect or restore body shape. Consideration needs to be given to positions throughout  the 24 hour period. lying positions as well as sitting positions need to be addressed. it is important that everyone involved in supporting the person throughout the day and night understand how to provide postural care and feel competent to do so.

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the best approach to postural care is PREVENTION. If people who are at risk of body shape changes can be identified, we can work to prevent body shape changes from happening.