Effects of backpack load on spatiotemporal turning gait parameters

Backpack load has been well reported as a risk factor associated with occupational falls. However, its effects on turning gait remained to be less understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of backpack load on spatiotemporal turning gait parameters. Twelve young male participants were involved in the experiment. They were instructed to make 900 left turns under three backpack load conditions (i.e., 0 kg, 7.5 kg, 15 kg). Spatio-temporal parameters, including stride durations, single support durations, stride lengths, stride widths, step lengths, and gait speed were examined and compared between different backpack load conditions. The results showed that people might adjust their stepping patterns during turning when carrying moderate backpack load (i.e., 15 kg). These adjustments, including reduced step length and stride width during the approach stride and decreased single support duration during the turning stride, could possibly increase the risk of falls. The findings from the present study provide insights into the causal relationship between backpack load and turning gait, and have practical implications for the development of interventions for minimizing the risk of falls in occupational settings.