PREVALENCE OF UPPER BACK PAIN DUE TO HEAVY SCHOOL BAG AMONG STUDENTS

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal discomfort in children, particularly upper back pain, is increasingly reported and often linked to heavy school bag use. Poor load distribution, excessive weight relative to body mass, and prolonged carriage time can contribute to spinal strain in growing children. This issue remains underexplored in many developing regions, including Pakistan. There is a growing need to assess prevalence and associated risk factors to guide preventive strategies and improve child musculoskeletal health.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of upper back pain among schoolchildren aged 10–14 years due to carrying heavy school bags in Khanpur city.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over seven months in two private schools of Khanpur: Manzil-e-Jahan Middle School and Horizon Public Middle School. A total of 100 students aged 10–14 years were enrolled using convenience sampling. Inclusion criteria involved students carrying heavy school bags and reporting upper back pain. A structured, researcher-designed proforma was used to assess pain location, intensity, and duration. Body weight and bag weight were measured using a digital scale (CAMRY EB 9320). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16. Descriptive statistics were used to report frequencies and percentages, while numerical variables like age and weight were expressed as means and standard deviations.

Results: Out of 100 students, 52% were male and 48% female, with a mean age of 12.32 ± 1.46 years. Weight distribution showed 32% of students weighed 30–34 kg. Regarding backpack load, 42% carried 16–18.9% of their body weight. Pain localization revealed 45% experienced upper back pain, 23% shoulder pain, 11% low back pain, and 21% had no pain. Additionally, 90% used double-strap bags and 89% carried them on both shoulders.

Conclusion: The study concluded that a high prevalence of upper back pain among students was associated with carrying heavy school bags. Preventive measures such as load management and awareness interventions are strongly recommended.