Effects of Backpack Carriage in Children and Adolescents
Back pain in adolescents is a growing concern for medical professionals and parents. During this period of accelerated growth and development of skeletal and soft tissue, additional loading of the spine puts children at risk for injury or deformities. Many studies have been reviewed which focus on a combination of weight, position, and distribution of the load, time spent carrying, and physical characteristics of the carrier. All studies examined found that backpack weight physically impacted children. However, even though there are negative effects of backpack carriage in adolescents, it has not yet been linked to serious injury or spinal deformities.
EXSC 407, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury
Heike McNeil