Carrying Heavy Backpacks and Handbags Amongst Elementary Students: Causes and Solutions

Abstract

Backpack is the best type of bag for students as the weight of the pack is evenly distributed across the body. But backpacks that are overloaded or not used properly can make health problems. Injuries may occur when a child tries to balance for the extra weight by leaning forward, bending his or her back or leaning to the side. Over time this can cause the shoulders to become rounded and the upper back to become curved. Because of the heavy weight, there's a chance of developing shoulder, neck, and back pain. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of heavy backpacks amongst elementary students. A case study was designed with participation of all students (n=60) from first and fourth grade students. A researcher’s constructed questionnaire was used to gather the required data. The weight of bag, the students’ weight and ratio of load to body weight was measured and then assessed with standards issues. Several interviews were also conducted with teachers to interrogate the reasons of using heavy backpacks and possible solutions. The results showed that 87 % of students carried a weight that is more than 10 percent of their body weight. Interestingly, first grade students’ backpacks were heavier than fourth grade students’ backpacks. It is recommended that the necessary facilities such as locker should be obtained to students in schools.