Analytical parameters to check association between load carriage system and bag packs-influenced musculoskeletal complications among school going students: a scoping review

Abstract

[Purpose] This study aimed to investigate the correlation between load-carriage systems and backpacks on musculoskeletal complications among school-going students. Additionally, the purpose was to identify research gaps and provide recommendations for future research.[Methods] To conduct this study, we conducted a thorough search of five databases for literature published between January 2010 and December 2022. Our focus was on original published articles that reported musculoskeletal complications using analytical parameters or outcome measures among school-going students. Two reviewers independently extracted data for eligibility. The studies selected for the analysis focused on musculoskeletal complications and the outcome measures to report these complications.[Results] A total of 3541 titles were screened; of which, 18 observational studies were included. The musculoskeletal complications identified in these studies included lower back, shoulder, and neck pain and disturbed posture. Overall, the quality of the reporting in these studies was deemed satisfactory.[Conclusion] Our analysis revealed that pain and postural abnormalities were the most frequently reported complications. Hence, we recommend that future studies incorporate multiple evaluations rather than concentrating on a single symptom.