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Influence of School Backpack Load as a Variable Affecting Gait Kinematics among Seven-Year-Old Children

Author

Listed:
  • Paulina Tomal

    (Department of Physiotherapy, Karol Marcinkowski Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-545 Poznan, Poland)

  • Anna Fryzowicz

    (Department of Biomechanics, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznan, Poland)

  • Elżbieta Skorupska

    (Department of Physiotherapy, Karol Marcinkowski Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-545 Poznan, Poland)

  • Lechosław B. Dworak

    (Faculty of Health Sciences, Calisia University, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland)

Abstract

This article investigates schoolchildren’s ability to carry an additional load using a backpack (BP). According to scientific research, there is no precise limit to the maximum backpack load, which varies from 10% to 15% of body weight (BW). The purpose of this study was, therefore, to evaluate the influence of an additional external load carried using a backpack on gait kinematics among seven-year-old children in Poland, including assessment of the gender differences. The study was conducted among 26 (13 boys and 13 girls) primary school children aged seven years. The children walked at their preferred speed, under four conditions: with no load (0% BW) and with 10%, 15% and 20% BW. Spatiotemporal parameters were measured using the 2 m Footscan ® platform system and photocell Sectro timing system. The children walked more slowly under an additional load. Their step length and single support time decreased. Their base of support, step time and double support time increased. There was no significant effect on their stride length or gait cycle time. The gait kinematic changes were most evident between 10% BW and greater loading. The results highlight how children’s gait is affected by carrying additional external loads, which should not exceed 10% BW. That limit is appropriate for both genders.

Suggested Citation

  • Paulina Tomal & Anna Fryzowicz & Elżbieta Skorupska & Lechosław B. Dworak, 2022. "Influence of School Backpack Load as a Variable Affecting Gait Kinematics among Seven-Year-Old Children," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(7), pages 1-12, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:7:p:3843-:d:778242
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. João P. Barbosa & Mário C. Marques & Henrique P. Neiva & Dulce Esteves & Alicia M Alonso-Martínez & Mikel Izquierdo & Rodrigo Ramirez-Campillo & Cristian Alvarez & Daniel A. Marinho, 2019. "Effects of Backpacks on Ground Reaction Forces in Children of Different Ages When Walking, Running, and Jumping," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(24), pages 1-12, December.
    2. Kyung-hun Kim & Jihyeon Ann & Sang-hun Jang, 2019. "Analysis of the Effect of Backpack Design with Reduced Load Moment Arm on Spinal Alignment," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(22), pages 1-11, November.
    3. Kai Way Li & Jenn Chun Chu & Ching Chung Chen, 2019. "Strength Decrease, Perceived Physical Exertion and Endurance Time for Backpacking Tasks," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(7), pages 1-13, April.
    4. Pilar Alfageme-García & Julián Fernando Calderón-García & Alfonso Martínez-Nova & Sonia Hidalgo-Ruiz & Mariana Martínez-Álvarez & Sergio Rico-Martín, 2020. "Backpacks Effect on Foot Posture in Schoolchildren with a Neutral Foot Posture: A Three-Year Prospective Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(19), pages 1-12, October.
    5. Michelle Perrone & Robin Orr & Wayne Hing & Nikki Milne & Rodney Pope, 2018. "The Impact of Backpack Loads on School Children: A Critical Narrative Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 15(11), pages 1-25, November.
    6. Tae-sung In & Seung-man Yu & Sang-hun Jang, 2019. "The Effects of Force That Pushes Forward Lumbar Region on Sagittal Spinal Alignment When Wearing Backpack," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(19), pages 1-9, September.
    7. Tania López Hernández & Marina Caparó Ferré & Sílvia Giné Martí & Isabel Salvat Salvat, 2020. "Relationship between School Backpacks and Musculoskeletal Pain in Children 8 to 10 Years of Age: An Observational, Cross-Sectional and Analytical Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(7), pages 1-13, April.
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