THE EFFECT OF LOAD CARRIAGE ON GAIT PATTERN AND TRUNK POSTURE IN SCHOOL CHILDREN

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the way in which the weight of schoolbags combined with walking distance effects the gait pattern and trunk posture of school children over a long period of time in field situations. Twenty-three male primary school students were randomly assigned to carry loads of 0%, 10%, 15% and 20% of their body weight. Subjects were required to walk along a basketball court for 22 laps, i.e. 1892 meters were analyzed, using natural cadence for the duration of the session. The gait pattern and trunk posture at about 10, 700, 1300 and 1890 meters were analyzed. From the data that was obtained it was apparent that there were significant differences in trunk inclination angle, stance duration, double leg support duration, and swing duration between the loads of 0% and 20% body weight.