The impact of backpack load on foot arch development in school- aged children: a pilot study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: The weight of school backpacks significantly affects children's health and posture.Heavy backpacks are known contributors to postural defects, back pain, and general discomfort among students.Aims: This pilot study aims to provide a preliminary assessment of the relationship between backpack weight and foot arch structure in primary school-aged children.It also addresses the growing issue of heavy backpacks carried by these children. Material and methods:The study included 69 fourth-grade students (aged 9-10), for whom body weight, height, BMI, and backpack weight were measured.Foot arch structure was assessed using a plantographic method, with footprints classified according to Bochenek's classification.Results: The average backpack weight was 4.72 kg, and in 70% of cases, it exceeded 20% of the child's body weight.No significant differences in backpack weight were observed between girls and boys.Higher BMI and body weight were correlated with a higher prevalence of flat feet, while lower BMI was associated with a higher incidence of high-arched feet.The distribution of normal and flat feet was similar regardless of gender, BMI, and body weight.
Source: Physiotherapy Review
Authors: Magdalena Nowak, Aleksandra Nowakowska, Daniel Gurin, Karina Słonka
Institutions: Opole University of Technology, Slovak Medical University
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4411667689