Controlling Postural Hypotension

• Sleep with the head of the bed elevated (8-12 inches).
This makes the person’s position change on rising less
severe.
• Avoid sudden changes of position. Arise from bed in
three steps:
♦ Sit on the side of the bed with legs dangling for 1 minute
♦ Stand with core holding on to the edge or the bed or another non mobile object for 1 minute
♦ Sit up in the bed for one minute

Gradual change in position stimulates renin, kidney enzyme that has a role in regulating BP and which prevents a dramatic drop in BP

• Balance is maintained with minimal effort when the base
•f support is enlarged in the direction in which the movement will occur
• Contracting muscles before moving an object lessens the energy required to move it
• The synchronized use of as many large muscles groups as possible during an activity increases overall strength and prevents muscle fatigue and injury
• The closer the line of gravity to the center of the base of support, the greater the stability
• The greater the friction against the surface beneath an object the greater the force required moving the object. (Pulling creates less friction than pushing)
• The heavier the object, the greater the force needed to move the object
• Moving an object along a level surface required less energy than moving an object up an inclined surface or lifting it against gravity
• Continuous muscle exertion can result in muscle stretch and injury