Effects of position on expiratory reserve volume of the lungs

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Abstract
The expiratory reserve volume (ERV) reflects the resting position of the lungs and thorax and is the most variable subdivision of the lung volume. It was confirmed that the ERV decreased when the subject changed from the sitting to the supine position. When the subject's elbows were supported on the arms of the chair, the ERV increased 3.1% and a further increase was noted when the subject leaned forward in the sitting position. The maximal ERV was recorded in the hands-knee position. To explain these changes the effect of the weight of the shoulder girdle and of the abdominal contents must be considered. There may also be other effective elastic forces in the abdomen in addition to those elastic forces contributed by the lungs and thorax. Submitted on August 31, 1959

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