Laboratory Analysis of Backpack Design and Walking Gradient Effects on Gait Kinetics and Kinematics
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.A balance backpack (BBP) significantly reduces lumbar extension (LE) and centre of pressure (COP) compared to a traditional backpack (TBP). Hikers using a BBP may experience a gait closer to unloaded walking.
Area Of Science
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
- Orthopedics
Background
- Hikers carry heavy backpacks during trekking, potentially affecting gait.
- Backpack design is a critical factor influencing hiker biomechanics.
Purpose Of The Study
- To evaluate how different backpack designs impact lumbar extension (LE) and centre of pressure (COP) during walking.
- To compare the effects of a traditional backpack (TBP) versus a balance backpack (BBP) on gait parameters.
Main Methods
- Eight participants walked on a treadmill with varying gradients (flat, incline, decline) under three conditions: no backpack (NBP), TBP, and BBP.
- Motion capture and force plate data were collected to analyze LE and COP.
- Statistical analysis, including Dunnett's post hoc test, identified significant differences.
Main Results
- The balance backpack (BBP) resulted in statistically significant reductions in LE and COP compared to the traditional backpack (TBP) across all tested gradients (p < 0.05).
- Observed differences in LE and COP were minimized with the BBP.
Conclusions
- The BBP's anterior-posterior loading system effectively mimics the gait pattern of unloaded walking.
- Hikers using a BBP may achieve a more natural gait compared to those using a TBP, potentially reducing strain.

