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MOJ
eISSN: 2374-6939

Orthopedics & Rheumatology

Research Article Volume 3 Issue 6

Preliminary Data on Backpack Study

Joseph Smith

Palmer College, USA

Correspondence: Joseph Smith, 2435 15, Abvenue Vero Beach, FL 32960, USA

Received: October 30, 2015 | Published: December 22, 2015

Citation: Smith J (2015) Preliminary Data on Backpack Study. MOJ Orthop Rheumatol 3(6): 00116. DOI: 10.15406/mojor.2015.03.00116

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Abstract

University of California tested a device, IDT360 Back Pack "Protector" on backpacks that tremendously minimized both pressure in the upper as well as lower back on the participants and was found to be a great aid toward reducing back injury from weighted backpacks.

Keywords: Preliminary data, Backpack, Protector, Lower back, SEM, Back injuries

Methods

Three subjects were recruited for this preliminary experiment. The surface forces were measured on the lower back and upper back (directly over the dome). Each subject was tested with three backpack designs: control (design without a dome), small dome (detachable dome), and large dome. Each backpack was loaded with 11.5lbs of books. 

Results

Data are presented as mean ± SEM. Preliminary results suggest a reduction of upper back and lower back forces with increased dome size. It would be very interesting to find out where the load is transferred. In order to do that, we need to work with larger sensors that expand the entire surface area of the backpack. The dimensions of the current sensors used are 22cm x 4cm (Figure 1).
We discovered three limitations with the study and each will be addressed in the future:

  1. The three groups were not randomized
  2. We did not pause between each measurement
  3. These limitations are important and will be addressed. After repeated measurements we noticed that the sensors became less sensitive. We need to pause between measurements so that the sensors can decompress. By randomizing the groups we will avoid order effects as well.
  4. Although the strap on the backpack was fixed temporarily, it is still difficult to adjust the strap properly.

Figure 1 MRI T-2 weighted image demonstrating central triceps tear with retraction.

Backpack “The Protector”

The Backpack, “The Protector” is an engineered multidirectional protection device that easily attaches to any Backpack. The “The Protector” inserts attaches by hook and loop to the base making any Backpack more supportive and functional while providing the ultimate protection for the users back. The device has a square protective base made of closed cell foam which is sealed in the base and is coated with an epoxy like resin that once the base is unpeeled it cures as it is attached to any Backpack and becomes part of that Backpack (Figure 2).” The main feature of the Backpack is the Impact Dome Technology, the special attachable insert made from lightweight closed cell foam, providing protection, comfort and performance. The insert is adjustable for different heights. It reduces the pressure in both the upper and lower back, resulting in minimizing back injuries, such as sprains and strains. 

In clinical testing at the University of California, this patented engineered device was found to significantly reduce both upper and lower back pressure when compared to other Backpacks.  Ideal for: School, Bicycling, Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Traveling, etc. First Aid/Sports Fusion.

Figure 2 The Achilles graft sewn into the native remaining tendon.

Acknowledgment

None.

Conflicts of interest

None.

Creative Commons Attribution License

©2015 Smith. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.