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Kusumoto Y, Takahashi E, Endo Y, Asao A, Tanaka Y, Okazaki K, Yokozuka M, Omata J, Yabuki S, Kanzaki H. Differences in walking and running parameters in elementary school students with and without backpacks. Work 2024:WOR240111. [PMID: 38759090 DOI: 10.3233/wor-240111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Backpack syndrome (BS) is a term used to describe symptoms such as shoulder and back pain that are believed to be caused by carrying a backpack. Few studies have investigated the changes in walking and running parameters with and without backpacks. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to investigate the differences in walking and running parameters with and without backpacks in primary school children with and without BS. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 51 children (average age 9.3 years, 6- 12 years). Two questions were asked beforehand: whether the respondents had shoulder or back pain when going to school and present; those who answered that they had pain in both cases were defined as the BS group, while the others were the control group. Walking and running at comfortable speeds and walking and running with a 6 kg backpack on their backs were measured. RESULTS During walking, there were main effects for speed, cadence, and strike angle with and without the backpack, but no interactions were identified for any of the parameters. In running, however, there were main effects for speed, stride length, strike angle, and lift-off angle, and an interaction effect was observed for speed and stride length. CONCLUSIONS During walking, carrying a 6 kg backpack increased cadence and walking speed. During running, carrying a backpack caused a decrease in stride length and running speed in the BS group, whereas there was no change in the control group, suggesting that the control and BS groups may respond differently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuaki Kusumoto
- Department of Physical Therapy, Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Fukushima City, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Eri Takahashi
- Department of Physical Therapy, Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Fukushima City, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Endo
- Department of Physical Therapy, Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Fukushima City, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Akihiko Asao
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Fukushima City, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Tanaka
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Fukushima City, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kanako Okazaki
- Department of Physical Therapy, Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Fukushima City, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Mieko Yokozuka
- Department of Physical Therapy, Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Fukushima City, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Junichi Omata
- Department of Physical Therapy, Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Fukushima City, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Shoji Yabuki
- Department of Physical Therapy, Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Fukushima City, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hideto Kanzaki
- Department of Physical Therapy, Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Fukushima City, Fukushima, Japan
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Longarini A, Duriez O, Shepard E, Safi K, Wikelski M, Scacco M. Effect of harness design for tag attachment on the flight performance of five soaring species. Mov Ecol 2023; 11:39. [PMID: 37415232 DOI: 10.1186/s40462-023-00408-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bio-logging devices play a fundamental and indispensable role in movement ecology studies, particularly in the wild. However, researchers are aware of the influence that attaching devices can have on animals, particularly on their behaviour, energy expenditure and survival. The way a device is attached to an animal's body has also potential consequences for the collected data, and quantifying the type and magnitude of such potential effects is fundamental to enable researchers to combine and compare data from different studies, as much as it is to improve animal welfare. For over two decades, large terrestrial birds have been in the focus of long-term movement ecology research, employing bio-logging devices attached with different types of harnesses. However, comparative studies investigating the effects of different harness types used on these species are scarce. METHODS In this study, we tested for potential differences in data collected by two commonly used harness types, backpack and leg-loop, on the flight performance of 10 individuals from five soaring raptor species, equipped with high resolution bio-logging devices, in the same area and time. We explored the effect of harness type on vertical speed, airspeed, glide ratio, height above sea level, distance travelled, proportion of soaring and flapping behaviour, and VeDBA (a proxy for energy expenditure) between and within individuals, all used as fine-scale measures of flight performance. RESULTS Birds equipped with leg-loops climbed up to 0.36 ms[Formula: see text] faster, reached 25.9% greater altitudes while soaring and spent less time in active flight compared to birds equipped with backpacks, suggesting that backpack harnesses, compared to leg-loops, might cause additional drag affecting the birds' flight performance. A lower VeDBA, a lower rate of sinking while gliding and slightly higher glide ratio and airspeeds were also indicative of less drag using leg-loops, even though the effect on these parameters was comparable to inter-individual differences. CONCLUSIONS Our results add to the existing literature highlighting the design-related advantages of leg-loops, and support the use of leg-loops as a better alternative to backpack harnesses for large soaring birds, when possible. Our study also highlights how apparently small changes in device attachment can lead to notable improvements in tagging practice, with implications for animal welfare, data interpretation and comparability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Longarini
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 1, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Olivier Duriez
- Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, UMR 5175 CNRS-Université de Montpellier- EPHE-Université Paul Valery, 1919 Route de Mende, 34293, Montpellier Cedex 5, France
| | - Emily Shepard
- Department of Biosciences, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Kamran Safi
- Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Department of Migration, Am Obstberg 1, 78315, Radolfzell, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Martin Wikelski
- Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Department of Migration, Am Obstberg 1, 78315, Radolfzell, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464, Konstanz, Germany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Martina Scacco
- Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Department of Migration, Am Obstberg 1, 78315, Radolfzell, Germany.
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464, Konstanz, Germany.
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Machado ÁS, Priego-Quesada JI, Jimenez-Perez I, Gil-Calvo M, Carpes FP, Perez-Soriano P. Effects of different hydration supports on stride kinematics, comfort, and impact accelerations during running. Gait Posture 2022; 97:115-121. [PMID: 35917702 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2022.07.234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Different supports for hydration can influence total body mass and affect running biomechanics. RESEARCH QUESTION Do different hydration supports affect the perceived exertion and comfort, stride kinematics, and impact accelerations during running? METHODS This was a crossover study design. Thirteen trail runners completed a treadmill running test divided into four different durations and randomized hydration supports conditions, lasting 8 min each at moderate intensity: A) waist bag (0.84 kg); B) medium load backpack (0.84 kg); C) full load backpack (3.40 kg); and D) a control condition without water support. Impact accelerations were measured for 30 s in 4, 6, and 8 min. The rate of perceived exertion and heart rate were registered on minutes 4 and 8. At the last minute of each condition, comfort perception was registered RESULTS AND SIGNIFICANCE: No condition affected the stride kinematics. Full load backpack condition reduced head acceleration peak (-0.21 g; p = 0.04; ES=0.4) and head acceleration magnitude (-0.23 g; p = 0.03; ES=0.4), and increased shock attenuation (3.08 g; p = 0.04; ES=0.3). It also elicited higher perceived exertion (p < 0.05; ES>0.8) being considered heavier (p < 0.01; ES > 1.1). The waist bag condition was more comfortable in terms of noise (p = 0.006; ES=1.3) and humidity/heat (p = 0.001; ES=0.8). The waist bag was the most comfortable support. On the other hand, the full backpack elicited lower comfort and was the only generating compensatory adjustments. These results may help to improve design of full load backpack aiming at comfort for runners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro S Machado
- Applied Neuromechanics Group, Laboratory of Neuromechanics, Federal University of Pampa, Uruguaiana, Brazil
| | - Jose Ignacio Priego-Quesada
- Research Group in Sports Biomechanics (GIBD), Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; Research Group in Medical Physics (GIFIME), Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Irene Jimenez-Perez
- Research Group in Sports Biomechanics (GIBD), Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; Research Group in Medical Physics (GIFIME), Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Marina Gil-Calvo
- Research Group in Sports Biomechanics (GIBD), Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; IIS Aragon - iHealthy, Department of physiatry and nursing, University of Zaragoza, Huesca, Spain
| | - Felipe P Carpes
- Applied Neuromechanics Group, Laboratory of Neuromechanics, Federal University of Pampa, Uruguaiana, Brazil
| | - Pedro Perez-Soriano
- Research Group in Sports Biomechanics (GIBD), Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Dai X, Zeng X, Liu S, Hong Y. Is skin pressure in load carriage over-evaluated? J Biomech 2021; 130:110854. [PMID: 34749165 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Skin pressure is a biomechanical measure widely used in the assessment of load carriage systems. However, because of the complicated contour of human body, the stiffness of the pressure sensor array, and the large range of measurable pressures, there is much variability in previously reported results. In this paper, a simple mechanical model for load carriage was proposed, and the skin pressures beneath the shoulder and hip straps were predicted from the strap forces based on Laplace's law. The proposed model was used to analyze data from literature with an aim to check the reliability of existing pressure measurements. The static and dynamic pressures at five locations on eight subjects wearing a backpack with a 10 kg load, while standing and walking on a treadmill, were measured respectively using pressure sensors of the air pack type. The combination of literature data analysis and experimental testing proved that the existing measurement method of interface pressure in load carriage systems often leads to over-estimation and this might misguide the pressure criteria set for load carriage system usage and design. The proposed model will be useful for quick prediction of the interface pressure in load carriage systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqun Dai
- College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Xianyi Zeng
- GEMTEX, ENSAIT, 2 allée Louise et Victor Champier, 59056 Roubaix Cedex 1, France
| | - Songrui Liu
- College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Yan Hong
- College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
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Morrongiello BA, Corbett M. The effect of a heavy backpack on children's street-crossing performance. Accid Anal Prev 2021; 150:105843. [PMID: 33310428 DOI: 10.1016/j.aap.2020.105843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The current study examined how wearing a heavy backpack influences children's street crossing behaviors. METHOD Using a fully-immersive virtual reality system, numerous indices of children's street crossing behaviors (7-13 years) were measured both when wearing a heavy backpack (12% of bodyweight) and when not doing so. RESULTS A heavy backpack slowed walking speed. However, any potential increase in risk from this was counteracted by compensatory actions that included: the selection of larger inter-vehicle gaps to cross into; greater efficiency in initiating the crossing (reduced start delay); and increased walking speed when in the path of the approaching vehicle. Ultimately, there was no greater risk outcome (time left to spare) compared to children's performance when not wearing a backpack. There were no age or sex differences. CONCLUSION When tested in ways that preserve perceptual-motor coupling in traffic situations, children strategically responded to maintain their safety despite wearing a heavy backpack that slowed their walking speed. Previous conclusions that a backpack increases pedestrian injury risk is likely an artifact of the testing method used.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Corbett
- Psychology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 3M9, Canada
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Orantes-Gonzalez E, Heredia-Jimenez J. Does schoolbag carriage equally affect obese/overweight and healthy-weight children? Appl Ergon 2021; 90:103236. [PMID: 32854066 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Discrepancies exist in backpack load recommendations for obese/overweight children, and the recommendations do not consider school trolleys. This study analysed obese/overweight and healthy-weight students' perceived load and fatigue when carrying schoolbags and their gait kinematics and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) when carrying backpacks or pulling school trolleys with different loads. Twelve obese/overweight and 36 healthy-weight students were asked about their perceived load and fatigue in carrying their schoolbags to school. Then, a kinematic gait analysis was completed in students walking unloaded or transporting 10%, 15% or 20% of their bodyweight (BW) in a backpack or trolley. RPE was recorded after each condition. The average hip rotation and knee adduction angles differed between body mass index (BMI) groups. The healthy-weight group reported higher RPEs than the overweight/obese group when pulling a trolley with 10-15% BW. In conclusion, both BMI groups responded similarly to load and schoolbag type.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Orantes-Gonzalez
- Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Body Expression, Faculty of Education and Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Melilla, Spain; Human Behavior and Motion Analysis Lab (Hubema Lab), University of Granada, Ceuta, Spain.
| | - J Heredia-Jimenez
- Human Behavior and Motion Analysis Lab (Hubema Lab), University of Granada, Ceuta, Spain; Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Education, Economy and Technology, University of Granada, Ceuta, Spain
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Angarita-Fonseca A, Boneth-Collante M, Ariza-Garcia CL, Parra-Patiño J, Corredor-Vargas JD, Villamizar-Niño AP. Factors associated with non-specific low back pain in children aged 10-12 from Bucaramanga, Colombia: A cross-sectional study. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2020; 32:739-747. [PMID: 30814343 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-160561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are no Colombian studies published that assess non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) risk factors in children. OBJECTIVE To determine the factors associated with NSLBP in 73 children (19.2% girls) aged 10-12 years in one military school in Bucaramanga, Colombia. METHODS A questionnaire was used to obtain information of risk factors. Subsequently, children's weight and height were measured. The backpack was weighed at the beginning of each day from Monday to Friday. Crude and adjusted prevalence ratios were calculated, with their respective 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS The one-month prevalence of NSLBP was 39.7% (95% CI 28.4-51.9). In the multivariate analysis, carrying backpacks wearing between 12% and 20% of body weight, having a perception that the backpack is very heavy, and being a passive smoker increase the likelihood of NSLBP, while being 11-year-old compared to 10-year-old decreases the likelihood of having NSLBP, adjusted for gender, body mass index, and history of LBP in parents. CONCLUSIONS High prevalence of low back pain was found in children between 10 and 12 years old. The study of the decisive factors of low back pain is important to identify children at risk, as well as to develop efficient primary prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Angarita-Fonseca
- Grupo de investigación Fisioterapia Integral, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia.,Grupo de Investigación en Manejo Clínico - CliniUDES, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia.,Canadian Centre for Security and Health in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Milena Boneth-Collante
- Grupo de Investigación en Manejo Clínico - CliniUDES, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - Claudia Lucia Ariza-Garcia
- Grupo de Investigación en Manejo Clínico - CliniUDES, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - Javier Parra-Patiño
- Escuela de Fisioterapia, Universidad Industrial de Santander UIS, Bucaramanga, Colombia
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Barbosa J, Marques MC, Izquierdo M, Neiva HP, Barbosa TM, Ramírez-Vélez R, Alonso-Martínez AM, García-Hermoso A, Aguado-Jimenez R, Marinho DA. Schoolbag weight carriage in Portuguese children and adolescents: a cross-sectional study comparing possible influencing factors. BMC Pediatr 2019; 19:157. [PMID: 31101090 PMCID: PMC6524289 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-019-1519-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schoolbags and the consequences of carrying them, particularly those associated with overload, are often studied as a health concern. Modifications in gait and posture were reported when children carried loads that corresponded to more than 10% of their body weight (BW). The aims of this study were to verify the load that is carried by Portuguese students and how it is influenced by factors such as school grade, school schedule, lunch site, physical education, sex and body mass index (BMI). Acquiring a more specific knowledge of the Portuguese context and understanding the influence of these factors may allow us to generate proposals to control them in ways that benefit students. METHODS The load carried by students in the 5th grade (10.6 ± 0.4 years) and 9th grade (14.7 ± 0.6 years) were weighed with a luggage scale on all days of the week, resulting in 680 evaluations. Data related to the school day were also collected, such as the student's lunch site, how he or she got to school and his or her school schedule for that day. Individual height and weight were also assessed. RESULTS The 5th grade students carried greater loads than the 9th grade students, resulting in a substantial difference relative to their BW. The school loads of the 5th grade students were mostly greater than 10% of their BWs. Girls tended to carry heavier loads than boys, and overweight students also tended to carry heavier loads. Students who could eat lunch at home carried less weight, and on physical education days, the total load carried increased, but the backpacks of the 5th grade students were lighter. CONCLUSIONS The results of the current study describe excessive schoolbag weight among Portuguese students and expound on some of the factors that influence it, which can help researchers and professionals design a solution to decrease children's schoolbag loads.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Barbosa
- Research Center in Sport Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, CIDESD, University of Beira Interior, Convento de Sto. António, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Mário C Marques
- Research Center in Sport Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, CIDESD, University of Beira Interior, Convento de Sto. António, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Mikel Izquierdo
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarre, Navarrabiomed, CIBER de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CB16/10/00315), Idisna, Pamplona, Navarre, Spain. .,Grupo GICAEDS. Programa de Cultura Física, Deporte y Recreación, Universidad Santo Tomás, Bogotá, DC, Colombia.
| | - Henrique P Neiva
- Research Center in Sport Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, CIDESD, University of Beira Interior, Convento de Sto. António, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Tiago M Barbosa
- Nanyang Technological University. National Institute of Education, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Robinson Ramírez-Vélez
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarre, Navarrabiomed, CIBER de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CB16/10/00315), Idisna, Pamplona, Navarre, Spain
| | - Alicia M Alonso-Martínez
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarre, Navarrabiomed, CIBER de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CB16/10/00315), Idisna, Pamplona, Navarre, Spain
| | - Antonio García-Hermoso
- Laboratorio de Ciencias de la Actividad Física, el Deporte y la Salud, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, USACH, Santiago, Chile
| | - Roberto Aguado-Jimenez
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarre, Navarrabiomed, CIBER de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CB16/10/00315), Idisna, Pamplona, Navarre, Spain
| | - Daniel A Marinho
- Research Center in Sport Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, CIDESD, University of Beira Interior, Convento de Sto. António, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
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Hadid A, Gozes G, Atoon A, Gefen A, Epstein Y. Effects of an improved biomechanical backpack strap design on load transfer to the shoulder soft tissues. J Biomech 2018; 76:45-52. [PMID: 29801661 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2018.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Revised: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to characterize shoulder strap structure and mechanical properties that may alleviate strains and stresses in the soft tissues of the shoulder. Utilizing a finite element model of the shoulder constructed from a single subject, we have quantified skin stresses exerted by backpack straps and the strains at the subclavian artery (SCA). For this end, standard shape straps with stiffness of 0.5, 1.2, and 5 MPa, were compared to the effects of optimized straps; a double-layered (soft outer layer and reinforced internal supporting layer) and newly-designed anatomically-shaped strap. Compared to the standard 0.5 MPa strap, the 5 MPa strap resulted in 4-times lower SCA strains and 2-times lower Trapezius stresses. The double-layered strap resulted in 40% and 50% reduction in SCA strains and skin stresses, respectively, with respect to the softer strap. The newly-designed anatomical strap exerted 4-times lower SCA strains and 50% lower skin stresses compared to the standard strap. This demonstrates a substantial improvement to the load carriage ergonomics when using a composite anatomical strap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Hadid
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Gal Gozes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Avihai Atoon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Amit Gefen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Yoram Epstein
- Heller Institute of Medical Research, Sheba Medical Centre, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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Talarico MK, Haynes CA, Douglas JS, Collazo J. Spatiotemporal and kinematic changes in gait while carrying an energy harvesting assault pack system. J Biomech 2018; 74:143-149. [PMID: 29752054 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2018.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Soldiers are fielded with a variety of equipment including battery powered electronic devices. An energy harvesting assault pack (EHAP) was developed to provide a power source to recharge batteries and reduce the quantity and load of extra batteries carried into the field. Little is known about the biomechanical implications of carrying a suspended-load energy harvesting system compared to the military standard assault pack (AP). Therefore, the goal of this study was to determine the impact of pack type and load magnitude on spatiotemporal and kinematic parameters while walking at 1.34 m/s on an instrumented treadmill at decline, level, and incline grades. There was greater forward trunk lean while carrying the EHAP and the heavy load (decline: p < 0.001; level: p = 0.009; incline: p = 0.003). As load increased from light to heavy, double support stance time was longer (decline: p = 0.012; level: p < 0.001; incline: p < 0.001), strides were shorter (incline: p = 0.013), and knee flexion angle at heel strike was greater (decline: p = 0.033; level: p = 0.035; incline: p = 0.005). When carrying the EHAP, strides (decline: p = 0.007) and double support stance time (incline: p = 0.006) was longer, the knee was more flexed at heel strike (level: p = 0.014; incline: p < 0.001) and there was a smaller change in knee flexion during weight acceptance (decline: p = 0.0013; level: p = 0.007; incline: p = 0.0014). Carrying the EHAP elicits changes to gait biomechanics compared to carrying the standard AP. Understanding how load-suspension systems influence loaded gait biomechanics are warranted before transitioning these systems into military or recreational environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria K Talarico
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; U.S. Army Research Laboratory, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA.
| | | | - Julianne S Douglas
- Communications-Electronics, Research, Development, and Engineering Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA
| | - Jose Collazo
- Communications-Electronics, Research, Development, and Engineering Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA
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Shei RJ, Chapman RF, Gruber AH, Mickleborough TD. Respiratory Effects of Thoracic Load Carriage Exercise and Inspiratory Muscle Training as a Strategy to Optimize Respiratory Muscle Performance with Load Carriage. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 5:49-64. [PMID: 29630067 DOI: 10.1007/s40362-017-0046-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Many occupational and recreational settings require the use of protective and/or load-bearing apparatuses worn over the thoracic cavity, known as thoracic load carriage (LC). Compared to normal, unloaded exercise, thoracic LC exercise places an additional demand on the respiratory and limb locomotor systems by altering ventilatory mechanics as well as circulatory responses to exercise, thus accelerating the development of fatigue in the diaphragm and accessory respiratory muscles compared to unloaded exercise. This may be a consequence of the unique demands of thoracic LC, which places an additional mass load on the thoracic cavity and can restrict chest wall expansion. Therefore it is important to find effective strategies to ameliorate the detrimental effects of thoracic LC. Inspiratory muscle training is an intervention that aims to increase the strength and endurance of the diaphragm and accessory inspiratory muscle and may therefore be a useful strategy to optimize performance with thoracic LC.
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Abstract
This study analyzed the kinematic gait parameters associated with pulling a school trolley with different loads and the effects of the type of packing device user (backpack vs. trolley) and body side (loadedunloaded). Methods Fifty-three elementary subjects walked at a selfselected speed under four experimental conditions: without a trolley and pulling a trolley with 10%, 15% and 20% of the subject́s body weight (BW). Averages and standard deviations of spatiotemporal gait parameters and 3D kinematics of the lower limbs and thorax were obtained for the loaded and unloaded sides of the body. Results Spatiotemporal gait parameters were affected by pulling a trolley with a load of 20% BW, although the changes were not important (decrease of 0.02 units in velocity and stride length, decrease of 0.32% in single support and increase of 0.31% in double support). In the 3D kinematics analysis, the main effects of trolley load were observed in the thorax, with increased flexion as the load increased, and in the pelvis between baseline and 10%-15% BW. No interaction was found between kinematic parameters and the type of packing device user (trolley or backpack). Considering the loaded and unloaded sides of the body, the transverse plane of the thorax was the main site affected by the asymmetrical task. Conclusion Although some of the analyzed kinematic parameters were influenced by the use of a school trolley, the adaptations were minimal, and trolleys could be considered a good option for use in the transportation of school supplies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Orantes-Gonzalez
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
| | - Jose Heredia-Jimenez
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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13
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Adeyemi AJ, Rohani JM, Abdul Rani MR. Backpack-back pain complexity and the need for multifactorial safe weight recommendation. Appl Ergon 2017; 58:573-582. [PMID: 27132042 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2016.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The study analysed backpack-related back pain in school children by investigating the possibility of multiple interactions among causative factors, which may be responsible for the non-conclusive findings on the issue. Using data from 444 prepubescent schoolchildren, a mixed method design combining survey, observation and direct measurement strategies was implemented. Using a multivariate structural equation modelling approach, the study investigated interactions among anthropometry, posture, backpack volume, rating and back pain constructs, with each construct made of 2-4 indicators. Additionally, regression analysis was used to determine the feasibility of considering the two additional factors of age and body mass index along with the globally accepted recommendation of a load of 10-15% of body weight. Our model demonstrated an acceptable model fit and revealed direct and indirect effects of the factors. Obese children were recommended to carry a one-third lighter load than other children. The application of systematic/multiple strategies provided an explanation for some of the issues associated with school children's backpack-related back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ademola James Adeyemi
- Department of Materials, Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, 81310, Johor, Malaysia.
| | - Jafri Mohd Rohani
- Department of Materials, Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, 81310, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Mat Rebi Abdul Rani
- Department of Materials, Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, 81310, Johor, Malaysia
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14
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Abdelraouf OR, Hamada HA, Selim A, Shendy W, Zakaria H. Effect of backpack shoulder straps length on cervical posture and upper trapezius pressure pain threshold. J Phys Ther Sci 2016; 28:2437-2440. [PMID: 27799665 PMCID: PMC5080147 DOI: 10.1589/jpts.28.2437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] This study was performed to investigate the effect of the length of backpack shoulder straps on upper trapezius muscle pain threshold and craniovertebral angle. [Subjects and Methods] There were 25 participants, with ages from 15 to 23 years old. Upper trapezius pain threshold and craniovertebral angle were measured for all subjects without the backpack then re-measured after walking on a treadmill for 15 min under 2 conditions: 1) wearing a backpack with short straps; and 2) wearing a backpack with long straps. [Results] there was a significant reduction in upper trapezius pain threshold and craniovertebral angle while carrying a backpack with long shoulder straps, compared to use of a backpack with short shoulder straps or no backpack. [Conclusion] A backpack with short straps is less harmful than a backpack with long straps. This result should be considered in ergonomic design of backpacks to reduce the incidence of various physiological and biomechanical disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ali Selim
- Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Wael Shendy
- Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Hoda Zakaria
- Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Egypt
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15
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Vieira MF, Lehnen GC, Noll M, Rodrigues FB, de Avelar IS, da Costa PHL. Use of a backpack alters gait initiation of high school students. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2016; 28:82-9. [PMID: 27088395 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Revised: 03/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We assessed how backpack carriage influences the gait initiation (GI) process in high school students, who extensively use backpacks. GI involves different dynamics from gait itself, while the excessive use of backpacks can result in adverse effects. 117 high school students were evaluated in three experimental conditions: no backpack (NB), bilateral backpack (BB), and unilateral backpack (UB). Two force plates were used to acquire ground reaction forces (GRFs) and moments for each foot separately. Center of pressure (COP) scalar variables were extracted, and statistical parametric mapping analysis was performed over the entire COP/GRFs time series. GI anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs) were reduced and were faster in backpack conditions; medial-lateral COP excursion was smaller in this phase. The uneven distribution of the extra load in the UB condition led to a larger medial-lateral COP shift in the support-foot unloading phase, with a corresponding vertical GRF change that suggests a more pronounced unloading swing foot/loading support foot mechanism. The anterior-posterior GRFs were altered, but the COP was not. A possible explanation for these results may be the forward trunk lean and the center of mass proximity of the base of support boundary, which induced smaller and faster APA, increased swing foot/support foot weight transfer, and increased load transfer to the first step.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Fraga Vieira
- Bioengineering and Biomechanics Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Georgia Cristina Lehnen
- Bioengineering and Biomechanics Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Matias Noll
- Bioengineering and Biomechanics Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Fábio Barbosa Rodrigues
- Bioengineering and Biomechanics Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Ivan Silveira de Avelar
- Bioengineering and Biomechanics Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
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16
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Sinitski EH, Herbert-Copley AG, Lemaire ED, Doyle SS, Besemann M, Dudek NL. Center of pressure and total force analyses for amputees walking with a backpack load over four surfaces. Appl Ergon 2016; 52:169-176. [PMID: 26360208 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2015.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2013] [Revised: 05/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Understanding how load carriage affects walking is important for people with a lower extremity amputation who may use different strategies to accommodate to the additional weight. Nine unilateral traumatic transtibial amputees (K4-level) walked over four surfaces (level-ground, uneven ground, incline, decline) with and without a 24.5 kg backpack. Center of pressure (COP) and total force were analyzed from F-Scan insole pressure sensor data. COP parameters were greater on the intact limb than on the prosthetic limb, which was likely a compensation for the loss of ankle control. Double support time (DST) was greater when walking with a backpack. Although longer DST is often considered a strategy to enhance stability and/or reduce loading forces, changes in DST were only moderately correlated with changes in peak force. High functioning transtibial amputees were able to accommodate to a standard backpack load and to maintain COP progression, even when walking over different surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily H Sinitski
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada.
| | | | - Edward D Lemaire
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada; University of Ottawa, Faculty of Medicine, 451 Smyth Rd., Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Sean S Doyle
- University of Ottawa, School of Human Kinetics, 125 University Private, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Markus Besemann
- Canadian Forces Health Services Group, 1745 Alta Vista Drive, Ottawa ON, K1A 0K6, Canada
| | - Nancy L Dudek
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada; University of Ottawa, Faculty of Medicine, 451 Smyth Rd., Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
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17
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Yoo WG. Effects of a low-center-of-gravity backpack on the trunk stability of mountaineers while ascending and descending. J Phys Ther Sci 2015; 27:3259-60. [PMID: 26644687 PMCID: PMC4668178 DOI: 10.1589/jpts.27.3259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] This study developed a backpack with a low center of gravity (LCG) and
investigated the effects of the LCG backpack on the trunk stability of mountaineers while
ascending and descending. [Subjects and Methods] Ten males aged 20–32 years were
recruited. The subjects ascended and descended a road with an inclination of 30 degrees
wearing the standard or LCG backpack, and trunk acceleration was measured using a
tri-axial accelerometer. [Results] The anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML)
trunk acceleration while ascending and descending with the LCG backpack were significantly
lower than those with the standard backpack. [Conclusion] The results suggest that the LCG
backpack could prevent falling injuries during mountaineering and mountain-related
activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won-Gyu Yoo
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Inje University, Republic of Korea
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18
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Castro MP, Figueiredo MC, Abreu S, Sousa H, Machado L, Santos R, Vilas-Boas JP. The influence of gait cadence on the ground reaction forces and plantar pressures during load carriage of young adults. Appl Ergon 2015; 49:41-46. [PMID: 25766421 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2015.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2014] [Revised: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Biomechanical gait parameters--ground reaction forces (GRFs) and plantar pressures--during load carriage of young adults were compared at a low gait cadence and a high gait cadence. Differences between load carriage and normal walking during both gait cadences were also assessed. A force plate and an in-shoe plantar pressure system were used to assess 60 adults while they were walking either normally (unloaded condition) or wearing a backpack (loaded condition) at low (70 steps per minute) and high gait cadences (120 steps per minute). GRF and plantar pressure peaks were scaled to body weight (or body weight plus backpack weight). With medium to high effect sizes we found greater anterior-posterior and vertical GRFs and greater plantar pressure peaks in the rearfoot, forefoot and hallux when the participants walked carrying a backpack at high gait cadences compared to walking at low gait cadences. Differences between loaded and unloaded conditions in both gait cadences were also observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo P Castro
- Center of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, School of Sport, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; Activity and Human Movement Study Center/Department of Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health Science, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Rua Valente Perfeito, 322, 4400-330 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal; Porto Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Maria Cristina Figueiredo
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Portuguese Catholic University, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Abreu
- Center of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, School of Sport, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; Porto Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - Helena Sousa
- Center of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, School of Sport, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; Activity and Human Movement Study Center/Department of Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health Science, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Rua Valente Perfeito, 322, 4400-330 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Leandro Machado
- Center of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, School of Sport, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; Porto Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - Rubim Santos
- Activity and Human Movement Study Center/Department of Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health Science, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Rua Valente Perfeito, 322, 4400-330 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Vilas-Boas
- Center of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, School of Sport, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; Porto Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
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Pau M, Mandaresu S, Leban B, Nussbaum MA. Short-term effects of backpack carriage on plantar pressure and gait in schoolchildren. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2014; 25:406-12. [PMID: 25499084 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2014.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Revised: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 11/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the effects of backpack carriage on plantar pressure distributions and spatio-temporal gait parameters among children. PARTICIPANTS Two hundred-eighteen schoolchildren, aged 6-13, and attending primary and secondary schools in the city of Cagliari (Italy). METHODS Participants were tested at school, during regular days. A pressure plate and wearable inertial sensors were used to measure plantar pressures and spatio-temporal parameters of gait. Measures were obtained during both quiet standing and walking, and both with and without a backpack. The latter contained those items a child had on the testing day. RESULTS Participants carried a mean mass in their backpacks of 5.2 kg, and more than half had a backpack/body mass ratio higher than 15%. While spatio-temporal gait parameters were not affected by backpack carriage, significant increases (up to 25%) in plantar pressures were found during both static standing and walking, especially in the forefoot. CONCLUSION Under realistic conditions, the impact of backpack carriage was more evident on foot-ground interaction than on gait features. However, long-term consequences of altered plantar pressure need to be assessed in future work, considering the actual durations typically spent carrying school items.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Pau
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Serena Mandaresu
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Bruno Leban
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maury A Nussbaum
- Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, 521 Whittemore Hall (0118), Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
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Nilsson JMC, Östlund K, Söderberg J, Mattsson S, Rääf C. Tests of HPGe- and scintillation-based backpack γ-radiation survey systems. J Environ Radioact 2014; 135:54-62. [PMID: 24776755 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2014.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Revised: 02/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/15/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The performance of three different backpack-mounted γ-radiation survey systems has been investigated. The systems are based on a LaBr3:Ce detector and a NaI(Tl) detector both with active volume dimensions of 76.2 mm in diameter and 76.2 mm length and a 123% relative efficiency HPGe detector. The detection limits of the systems were tested in a controlled outdoor environment in Sweden, followed by field tests of the HPGe- and LaBr3:Ce-based systems at the site of a radioactive waste repository in Georgia (in the Caucasus region of Eurasia). The results showed that the high efficiency HPGe detector performed significantly better than similar sized LaBr3:Ce and NaI(Tl) detectors, however, the HPGe detector was significantly heavier than the other systems. The use of different analysis methods revealed that creating maps of the survey area was the best method for offline analysis of survey data collected from a large area. Using off-site personnel for analysis of the data proved to be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karl Östlund
- Lund University, Medical Radiation Physics, SUS Malmo, Sweden
| | | | - Sören Mattsson
- Lund University, Medical Radiation Physics, SUS Malmo, Sweden
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Dianat I, Sorkhi N, Pourhossein A, Alipour A, Asghari-Jafarabadi M. Neck, shoulder and low back pain in secondary schoolchildren in relation to schoolbag carriage: should the recommended weight limits be gender-specific? Appl Ergon 2014; 45:437-442. [PMID: 23827662 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2013.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2012] [Revised: 06/06/2013] [Accepted: 06/06/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of neck, shoulder and low back complaints in relation to schoolbag carriage and other potential risk factors were investigated in a cross-sectional study of 586 Iranian schoolchildren aged 12-14 years. The average load carried by schoolchildren was 2.8 kg. Neck, shoulder and low back complaints during the preceding month were reported by 35.3%, 26.1% and 33% of the students, respectively. Gender was an independent factor predicting musculoskeletal symptoms in schoolchildren. Girls were more likely than boys to suffer from neck, shoulder and low back complaints, although there was no significant difference between genders in terms of schoolbag carriage variables. The findings suggest that the recommended weight limit for schoolbag carriage may need to differ between boys and girls. The associations between schoolbag variables and reported symptoms are also discussed. The results provide evidence that the current weight limit should consider a broader combination of factors that influence the use of schoolbags.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Dianat
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Nasibeh Sorkhi
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Aida Pourhossein
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Arezou Alipour
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Asghari-Jafarabadi
- Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Son H. The effect of backpack load on muscle activities of the trunk and lower extremities and plantar foot pressure in flatfoot. J Phys Ther Sci 2013; 25:1383-6. [PMID: 24396193 PMCID: PMC3881460 DOI: 10.1589/jpts.25.1383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2013] [Accepted: 05/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in muscle activation of the trunk and lower extremities and plantar foot pressure due to backpack loads of 0, 10, 15, and 20% of body weight during level walking in individuals with flatfoot. [Methods] Fourteen young flatfoot subjects and 12 normal foot subjects participated in this study. In each session, the subjects were assigned to carry a backpack load, and there were four level walking modes: (1) unloaded walking (0%), (2) 10% body weight (BW) load, (3) 15% BW load, and (4) 20% BW load. Trunk and lower extremity muscle activities were recorded by surface EMG, and contact area and plantar foot pressure were determined using a RS scan system. [Results] The erector spinae, vastus medialis, tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius muscle activities, but not the rectus femoris and rectus abdominis muscle activities of flatfoot subjects significantly and progressively increased as load increased in flatfoot subjects. Contact area and pressure of the lateral and medial heel zones were significantly increased too. [Conclusion] Based on this data, the weight of a backpack could influence muscle activation and plantar foot pressure in flatfoot.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hohee Son
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Pusan, Republic of Korea
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23
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Kim MH, Yoo WG. Effect of the spacing of backpack shoulder straps on cervical muscle activity, acromion and scapular position, and upper trapezius pain. J Phys Ther Sci 2013; 25:685-6. [PMID: 24259829 PMCID: PMC3805011 DOI: 10.1589/jpts.25.685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 01/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] This study investigated the effect of the spacing of backpack shoulder straps on cervical muscle activity, acromion and scapular position, and upper trapezius (UT) pain. [Subjects] Fourteen males aged 20-32 years, were recruited. [Methods] We measured the MPS (midcervical paraspinal) activity, acromial angle, scapular distance, and UT pain after gait carrying a backpack with different shoulder strap spacings. [Results] The MPS, scapular inferior distance, and UT pressure pain threshold was significantly decreased and the acromion angle was significantly increased when carrying a backpack with wide shoulder straps compared to narrow shoulder straps. [Conclusion] A backpack with wide shoulder straps may cause scapular depression syndrome and chronic UT pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-hee Kim
- Institute of Health Science, Yonsei University
| | - Won-gyu Yoo
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Biomedical
Science and Engineering, Inje University and Elderly Life Redesign Institute
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Shamsoddini A, Hollisaz M, Hafezi R. Backpack weight and musculoskeletal symptoms in secondary school students, tehran, iran. Iran J Public Health 2010; 39:120-5. [PMID: 23113045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2010] [Accepted: 10/11/2010] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased complaints by school students about back and shoulder pain and discomfort have raised concerns among parents, education professionals, and orthopedists and these discomforts may be because of schoolbag carriage. The aim of this study was to investigate of relationship of musculoskeletal symptoms with weight of backpack in Tehran secondary school students. METHODS This cross-sectional study was performed in the city of Tehran in 2009. Two hundred thirteen students participated in study. Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used, asking about complaints of back, neck, and/or shoulders. Length and weight of the children were determined. Schoolbags were weighed, and the relative weight of the schoolbag was calculated. RESULTS Most prevalent musculoskeletal discomfort was in shoulders as 38.1%, neck 27.6% and back 16.7%. Average difference of weight of backpack in sample that had musculoskeletal with other samples was significant (P< 0.05). CONCLUSION Weight of the backpack appears to be strongly related to the occurrence of shoulder, neck, back, and extremities complaints in students. Although musculoskeletal discomforts are believed to be multifactorial in origin, the carriage and manipulating of heavy backpack is signally a suspected factor and may represent an overlooked daily physical stress for secondary students.
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