Effects of backpack carriage on gait parameters in children.
OBJECTIVE
Carrying a backpack over 2 shoulders is the most efficient means of carriage, but often backpacks are carried over 1 shoulder. Our purpose was to assess walking base of support, stride length, double support time, and velocity when backpacks were carried on 1 or 2 shoulders.


METHODS
Thirty-two children (12-13 years) were assessed under 2 load conditions using the GAITRite system.


RESULTS
No significant differences were found in base of support, stride length, or velocity when compared with the unloaded baseline walk. Double limb support significantly increased (p < 0.0001) with both load conditions when compared with the baseline, but not between 1-shoulder and 2-shoulders carriage.


CONCLUSIONS
Little change in temporal-spatial gait parameters was noted during backpack use with loads limited to 15% body weight. Future studies need to examine the effects of the child's height, body mass index, and strength on safe backpack use.
Connolly
Barbara H
BH
Department of Physical Therapy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, USA. bconnolly@utmem.edu
Cook
Brad
B
Hunter
Stacey
S
Laughter
Melinda
M
Mills
Abigail
A
Nordtvedt
Nick
N
Bush
Andrew
A
D000293:Adolescent; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D005684:Gait; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011187:Posture; D016138:Walking; D016474:Weight-Bearing