Abstract
In the conventionally supported prone position (C prone), subjects were supported with rolled pads inserted at a right angle to the body axis on the level of the clavicular and iliac prominences. In the lengthwise supported prone position (L prone), rolled pads were inserted parallel to the body axis at both sides of the body. Skin pressure against the pads was measured at three points (shoulder, ilium and patella) 30 minutes after being turned into each position.
The results showed that body weight was more dispersed on L prone than C prone. The pressure on the skin was decreased at the iliac portion, especially in the obese group. In C prone, seven subjects complained of mild pain at the compressed portions and 26 subjects complained of unpleasant pressure on the upper part of the chest. But in L prone only one subject complained of pain at the knee and nine felt instability of their bodies as if they would slip.
