Impact of Backpacks on Ergonomics: Biomechanical and Physiological Effects: A Narrative Review

Abstract

(1) Background: the effects of load carriage packs on human gait biomechanics, physiology and metabolism depend on the weight carried, the design of the pack and its interaction with the user. (2) Methods: An extensive search in the PubMed database was performed to find all the relevant articles using the following keywords: backpack, rucksack, backpack ergonomy and sports backpack; 60 articles were included. (3) Results and significance: Double pack (DP) and T-pack (TP) designs are recommended solutions for school children, compared with backpacks (BP). For soldiers and hikers, a backpack remains the best compromise. A hip belt is recommended for BPs as well as for the back of DPs. Shorter and stiffer shoulder straps combined with a higher and tighter load placement on the back provide the best combination in terms of balance, muscle activation and energy expenditure. It is, therefore, possible to determine guidelines for designing the optimal load carriage system, depending on the application. (4) Conclusions: based on the available evidence, DP and TP are advantageous in terms of posture. DP is better than conventional BPs in terms of balance and muscle activation, but has the disadvantage of limited visibility, thermal sensation and obstructed ventilation. In general, it is desirable not to exceed 40% of body mass (BM).

Biomechanical comparison of sagittal vertebral column bend change induced by backpacks in school-aged children and adolescents: Systematic review and network meta-analysis

“…In conclusion, this article's studies collectively summarize the bending of the vertebral column in the sagittal plane under backpack loading conditions, covering the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. Previous research has explored the sagittal plane, but primarily in the contexts of shoulder strap design, particular sagittal plane areas, or other demographic groups [47,[62][63][64][65]. Studies focusing exclusively on the entire sagittal plane concerning backpack weight are limited.…”

Factores de riesgos ergonómicos y desempeño profesional en médicos del Centro de Salud de Azogues

“…Este concepto se puede corroborar con lo que mencionan Molina et al (2018) que, la ergonomía es la encargada de reunir conceptos: técnicos, teóricos e interdisciplinares para encontrar la mejor manera posible de realizar una actividad con el menor esfuerzo. Una de las consideraciones con mayor relevancia que estudia la ergonomía en el campo laboral, es la perspectiva de los esfuerzos biomecánicos y fisiológicos que realizan las personas en sus actividades, es decir, estudia cómo las estructuras corporales, los movimientos, posturas y comportamientos de la fisionomía humana pueden repercutir en las funciones del organismo al momento de realizar diversas actividades laborales (Genitrini et al, 2022).…”

Development and testing of auxetic shoulder straps for sport backpacks

“…Especially in the field of sports, the key factors of comfort, functionality and fit of backpacks are of great importance. These aspects have a significant impact on performance and safety, as they can affect stability and balance, which can lead to discomfort, pain and even physical injury, especially in the back and other regions 2 . When it comes to spinal health, the dimensions, load distribution and positioning are crucial to the ergonomics of backpacks 1,2 .…”

“…These aspects have a significant impact on performance and safety, as they can affect stability and balance, which can lead to discomfort, pain and even physical injury, especially in the back and other regions 2 . When it comes to spinal health, the dimensions, load distribution and positioning are crucial to the ergonomics of backpacks 1,2 . It is well known that the weight of a backpack acts directly on the back via the shoulder straps, which can lead to discomfort, especially at pressure points such as the shoulder and collarbone.…”