Asymmetric load-carrying in young and elderly women: Relationship with lower limb coordination

The Comparison of Pressure of the Feet in Stance and Gait by the Types of Bags

“…Previous studies regarding asymmetric loadcarrying similar to the shoulder pack have argued that the range increases for maximum trunk lateral flexion to the contralateral side, maximum head lateral flexion to the contralateral side, and maximum upper arm elevation to the contralateral side during gait as load increased from 0, to 3 and 8 kg 7) . This result is consistent with the results of the present study show no difference in plantar foot pressure between the left and right sides during gait irrespective of the weight of the shoulder pack.…”

“…Due to global fashion trends, the types of bag available are more diverse than ever. However, wearing a bag on one side results in a higher weight load on that side and the body imbalance can eventually result in musculoskeletal disorders 7) . Despite the fact that it causes imbalance of the body, many people, including growing children, wear a shoulder bag for convenience.…”

“…As a result, plantar foot pressure has become the focus of attention in studies investigating body balance 6) . When walking wearing a bag, the bag's weight causes physical stress and dynamic balance and posture change under the physical and mechanical impact of the bag 7) . When weight is loaded on a single side, individuals unconsciously lift shoulder or tilt the body toward the side where the weight is loaded with the purpose of placing the center of the body at the center of gravity.…”

“…Moreover, they result in inappropriate gait movement causing insufficient absorption of impact when the foot touches the ground. As a result, injuries are likely to be incurred due to excessive fatigue in the musculoskeletal system 7,8) . While balance in static posture can be maintained without losing much energy due to the absence of acceleration in the lower limbs and trunk, maintaining balance during gait requires higher energy due to acceleration in the lower limbs and trunk, increasing instability 9) .…”

Effects of Same-Sided and Cross-Body Load Carrying on the Activity of the Upper Trapezius and Erector Spinae Muscles

“…2,4 The weight of bag acts as an extrinsic asymmetrical load that affects the body's characteristics. 5,6 When a person carries a shoulder bag over one shoulder, s/he unconsciously changes shoulders and spinal alignment to maintain balance. 6,7 The spine is deviated laterally away from the load, and the shoulder is elevated, which increases stress in the lower limb joints and may also affect dynamic balance during gait.…”