Front packs: is 15% safe? Evaluation of the effect of different front pack loads on 3D back shape and posture in asymptomatic young adults

Introduction Load carriage is a significant factor in the aetiology of back pain. Front load carriage in particular, is a significant problem in obese individuals, as well as pre and post pregnancy in women. Further, carrying a frontpack is routinely used within some industries such as agriculture and construction. Whilst the focus of much of the literature is on backpacks, little is known on the effects of a front pack. The load carriage recommended for children found in the literature is 10% body weight (Moore et al, 2006). However load limits for adults are controversial ranging from 10-20% body weight. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a 10%, 15% and 20% frontload on standing backshape and posture in asymptomatic young adults.