Impact of Backpack Load on Cervical Posture among School Students
Abstract: Background: Carrying heavy school backpacks has been identified as a major risk factor for musculoskeletal strain and postural deviations in school children. The craniovertebral angle (CVA) is a reliable indicator of forward head posture (FHP), with values less than 50? considered abnormal. Prolonged exposure to heavy loads may lead to postural imbalances, cervical strain, and long term spinal complications like kyphosis, reduced lordosis and have effect in pelvic tilt. Understanding the effect of backpack weight on posture is essential to formulate safe schoolbag weight guidelines and prevent early onset of musculoskeletal issues. Objective: To determine the impact of different backpack loads (0%, 10%, and 15% of body weight) on craniovertebral angle and forward head posture among school children, and to analyze gender-based differences. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 80 school children (40 boys and 40 girls) aged 10?12 years. Posture was assessed by measuring craniovertebral angle (CVA) using a digital goniometric method under three conditions: without backpack, with 10% body weight load, and with 15% body weight load. Students with CVA
Keywords: Backpack load, Craniovertebral angle, Forward head posture, School children, Posture
How to Cite?: Sreya Retnakaran, Manju M Jacob, Mali Ram Sharma, Swathi Dubey, "Impact of Backpack Load on Cervical Posture among School Students", Volume 15 Issue 1, January 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 519-526, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26107145253, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26107145253