prone position and lung mechanics

The prone position refers to lying flat on one's stomach. This position can improve lung mechanics, especially in patients with respiratory issues. When a person is prone, lung expansion can be enhanced, and the weight of the heart is shifted away from the lungs, allowing better airflow and oxygen exchange. It helps open collapsed areas of the lungs, making it easier for patients to breathe deeply. Prone positioning is often used in medical settings to assist in the treatment of conditions like pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).