The Effects of a Unilateral Shoulder Bag on Lower Extremity Weight Distribution

Signature Grand, Davie, Florida, USA

Objective. To investigate lower extremity weight bearing distribution and whether a unilateral strap shoulder bag can equalize lower extremity weight distribution. Background. Wearing backpacks and shoulder bags are common in young adults. The effects of the use of these bags can cause musculoskeletal problems. Backpacks can cause muscle spasm and uneven weight distribution. Methods. Each participant wore a shoulder bag four different ways while standing on the Postural Scale Analyzer to measure the lower extremity weight distribution. Results. Subjects demonstrated a weight bearing difference in standing. Right lower extremity weight bearing dominant participants exhibit more equalized weight distribution through the lower extremities when wearing a shoulder bag across the left shoulder draped. It was also found that if you wear the shoulder bag across the left shoulder draped, you bear more weight through the left lower extremity when you are left handed. Similarly, there is more weight through the right lower extremity when you are right handed when you wear the shoulder bag over the left shoulder draped. Conclusion. It is possible that individual prescription of a unilateral bag can be utilized to create symmetry in lower extremity weight distribution.