Abstract
The purpose of this study was to analyze spatiotemporal parameters of gait in children using varyingly loaded Backpacks(BP). This cross-sectional study examined 231 schoolchildren (118 boys, 113 girls) aged six to 12 years, carrying a traditional BP to manipulate loading (Crossing Backpack Children Arpenaz 7 Litres, Junior Red Quechua). Load was added to the BPs in increments of 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% of the child’s body weight. Spatio-temporal parameters were measured with the OptoGait system. Significant differences were observed in single support (p < 0.001), and double support (p < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were observed in step length (p = 0.959) between the five loading conditions. Similarly, no statistically significant differences were found in the contact phase (p = 0.208), although significant changes were seen between baseline, 15% of body weight (p < 0.005), and 20% of body weight (p < 0.005). The effect sizes from the ANOVA in the single support was low (0.015), and double support was moderate (0.02). Increased weight in BPs reduced both children’s balance and single support, increased double support, but did not change step length. The children increase double support with heavier loads to help their balance. The spatio-temporal changes were most evident with BP loads between 15–20% of body weight. Affective responses, including the perception of heaviness or difficulty in carrying the schoolbags need to be included in further and prospective investigations.
Highlights
Most school aged children transport their school books and equipment on a daily basis, usually using carts or backpacks (BPs)
The difference is minimal between the baseline and the different BP loads, and the results range between 59.18 cm at baseline to 58.93 cm with a load of 20% body weight
No statistically significant difference was observed between the BP load conditions contact phase time (F(1;230) = 1.47, p = 0.208)
Summary
Most school aged children transport their school books and equipment on a daily basis, usually using carts or backpacks (BPs). Previous studies cite that between 4.7% and 38.0% of children carry loads greater than 20% of their body weight daily[3,7]. Measures of spatio-temporal gait parameters are used to identify walking difficulties for diagnoses, and may determine prognosis[12]. Despite the lack of convincing evidence, schoolbags have been traditionally linked to back pain in children and adolescents[14]. Heightened awareness of this issue by the general public means that clinicians are frequently asked for advice on a preferred style of schoolbag and/or how to carry the schoolbag to reduce risk of back pain[15]. Significant changes due to backpack weight, and the percentage of children’s body weight which generates theses changes, with the aim of preventing postural disorders
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