Key points
- Every position gets harder over time, even an easy one
- Pad knees and use a mat on hard floors
- Shoulders are the joints most often hurt in restraint
- Change position or shift weight regularly
- Sharp pain or pain that shoots down a limb means stop
In detail
- Ask about old injuries, joint problems, back pain and hypermobility before the scene. Flexible joints are not a sign that a position is safe
- Long kneeling, especially sitting back on the heels, can press on the nerve outside the knee and cause a dragging foot. Use cushions and short intervals
- Arms tied behind the back or raised overhead strain the shoulder joint. Keep elbows bent and avoid pulling the arms upward
- Support the lower back with cushions in arched or bent-over positions, and do not hold deep backbends
- Check in at least every 10 to 15 minutes in fixed positions, and let the person stretch or move between segments
- After long kneeling or lying down, help the person stand up slowly. Blood pressure can drop and cause dizziness or fainting
- Warm up gently before and stretch afterwards
Warnings
- Pain that shoots down an arm or leg, numbness or a joint that suddenly gives way: release and stop
- A painful, swollen calf, chest pain or sudden shortness of breath after long immobility needs emergency care
- Endurance is not a reason to ignore pain signals; agree on this before the scene
- Soreness that worsens over several days needs a medical check
Resources and next steps
- A physiotherapist or doctor if you have joint or back problems
- Knee pads, yoga mats and firm cushions as standard kit
- The guide on hydration and nutrition in scenes on this site
- The guide on long-term BDSM practice on this site