Patients who are under a general anesthetic lose their protective muscle tone and pain receptors that alert them when their body is being moved beyond its normal range of motion. The patient\u2019s normal defence mechanisms which help guard from muscle, nerve, and joint damage can no longer protect them when there is stretching and twisting<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Proper body alignment of the anesthetized patient solely relies on those who are positioning them. This should be done as much as possible while still ensuring adequate access to the surgical site. Misaligned joints can lead to unnecessary postoperative pain and discomfort, as well as permanent injury to an extremity. It is important that the perioperative team is aware of any limitations to the patient\u2019s range of motion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Special Musculoskeletal System Populations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Special considerations are required for elderly patients and those who have severe osteoporosis or other bone diseases. Misalignment or moving beyond their natural range of motion can lead to fractures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Alignment of the patient\u2019s body must be maintained when turning or transferring them into a position or from the OR table to a bed. This is particularly important when moving a patient from a supine to a prone position or lateral one. Extremities need to be supported to prevent strain on muscles and ligaments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n (Phillips & Hornacky, 2021; Fawcett, 2019)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n