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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Prone and Supine Position?

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The difference between prone and supine positions lies in the orientation of the body:

  • Prone position: A person in the prone position is lying face down, with their stomach touching the surface. This position is often used for sleeping on one's stomach.
  • Supine position: A person in the supine position is lying face up, with their back facing the surface. This position is commonly used for sleeping on one's back.

In summary:

  • A person lying prone is facing downward, with their stomach touching the surface.
  • A person lying supine is facing upward, with their back touching the surface.
On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Prone and Supine Position?
  • Comparative Table: Prone vs Supine Position

    • Comparative Table: Prone vs Supine Position

    The main difference between the prone and supine positions lies in the orientation of the body. Here is a table comparing the two positions:

    Feature Prone Position Supine Position
    Definition Lying face down with the face pointing towards the surface Lying face up with the face pointing away from the surface
    Anatomical Effects In the prone position, the lungs are compressed by the weight of the chest and abdomen, which can make breathing more difficult. In the supine position, the lungs have more space to expand, making breathing easier.
    Medical Applications The prone position is commonly used in medical procedures such as surgeries and diagnostic tests. The supine position is often used in physiotherapy, surgery, and diagnostic tests.
    Examples - Swimming freestyle - Floating on the back

    Remembering the difference between prone and supine positions can be helped by associating the word "prone" with "prostrate," which means lying flat, often submissively. In contrast, the supine position is more like lying comfortably on one's back.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.