School backpacks: a risk factor associated to nonspecific back pain

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore the existence of low back pain among Mallorcan schoolchildren between the ages of 10 and 12, and to analyse different variables associated with the transportation of schoolbags. This study was conducted using a sample of 137 schoolchildren (71 boys and 66 girls). The schools were chosen using random sampling techniques. The questionnaire and data-collection method were previously validated using the test- rest method. The results show that lifetime prevalence was 69.3% and seven days prevalence 13.9%. The average weight of the schoolbags was 4.83 kg, equivalent to 12.57% of the schoolchildren’s body weight. The 32.1% of participants believe that schoolbags’ weight doesn’t affect to their back health. This study suggests that low back pain is an ailment that affects a large part of the population those aged between 10 and 12 and that the average weight of the schoolbags exceed the maximum values according to avoid negative impacts.