Effect of seated restraint and body size on lung function
John Parkes1, Doug Thake, Mike Price
1Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Priory Street, Coventry, CV1 5FB, UK. j.parkes@cov.ac.uk
Medicine, Science, and the Law
|September 13, 2011
Summary
Seated restraint positions may increase risks during law enforcement encounters. Leaning forward while seated, especially with a higher body mass index (BMI), significantly reduces lung function, potentially increasing harm risks.
Area of Science:
- Forensic science and physiology
- Law enforcement safety research
Background:
- Prior research on restraint-related deaths primarily examined prone (lying) positions.
- This study investigates the physiological impact of seated restraint positions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effect of different seated restraint positions on lung function.
- To identify risk factors associated with reduced lung function in restraint.
Main Methods:
- Compared lung function in a standing position versus various seated positions in 40 volunteers.
- Measured lung function changes with forward leaning and simulated restraint holds.
Main Results:
- Upright seated positions showed no significant lung function reduction.
- Forward leaning in seated positions significantly reduced lung function.
- Higher body mass index (BMI) correlated with greater lung function reduction.
Conclusions:
- Seated restraint positions involving forward leaning may elevate risks during prolonged law enforcement restraint.
- Individuals with higher BMI face increased risk in these restraint positions.
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