Impact of Backpack Load on Cervical Posture among School Students

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 < 50? were considered to have forward head posture (FHP). Outcome measures: 1) Craniovertebral Angle (CVA) Results: At baseline (0% load), no students exhibited FHP. With 10% body weight load, 30 students (37.5%) showed FHP, including 16 girls (40%) and 14 boys (35%). With 15% body weight load, 54 students (67.5%) were affected, with boys (82.5%) showing higher prevalence compared to girls (52.5%). Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant association between backpack load and postural deviation (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study concluded that backpack loads exceeding 10% of body weight cause significant postural deviations in school children, with boys being more affected than girls. A safe threshold for schoolbag weight should be set at or below 10% of body weight to prevent forward head posture and long-term musculoskeletal problems.