Affiliations: Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Science and Technology, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Ukachukwu Okoroafor Abaraogu, Department of Medical Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria. E-mail:ukachukwu.abaraogu@unn.edu.ng,uabaraogu@yahoo.com
Abstract: BACKGROUND/AIM: Backpack effect posture, walking and physiological
costs but there is dearth of literature on effects of backpack strap (1
versus 2 straps) on gait and perceived exertion among young adults. We
determined the influence of type of backpack shoulder strap on gait
parameters and perceived exertion of young adults in a free-living normal
walking speed. METHODS: Twenty-five young adults with a mean age of 22 years
underwent a self-selected normal speed walking for six minutes each under 3
testing conditions: without a backpack; with 1 strap; and with 2 straps.
Selected gait parameters and perceived exertion were assessed. RESULTS: There were no significant difference in stride length,
stride time, step length, step time, gait speed, and cadence among the three
walking conditions. However, perceived exertions were significantly higher
when the backpack was carried with 15% irrespective of 1 strap or 2
straps. CONCLUSION: Momentary carriage of a backpack either on 1 strap or 2
straps does not appear to influence gait phases. However, this short bout of
normal walking appear to increase perceived exertion in young adults
irrespective of whether the backpack is wore on single or double shoulder
strap.
Keywords: Backpack load, backpack strap, young adults, perceived exertion, human gait
