Upper limb manual dexterity, strength and blood flow after walking with backpack load. (November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hein, Jennifer L.; Sesno, Nicolas N.; Armenta, Richard F.; Nessler, Jeff A.; Asakawa, Deanna S.
• Is Part Of: Applied ergonomics. Volume 97(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-11
• Subjects: Load carriage -- Pinch strength -- Pegboard; Human engineering -- Periodicals; 620.82
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103505
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-6870

Abstract

Abstract: This study aimed to characterize the effects of walking with backpack load on upper limb function. Fifteen males participated in 3 conditions: no load, 40% body weight loaded backpack (BP) and loaded backpack with simulated rifle (BRC). Pinch strength, grip strength, sensory threshold, blood flow volume, and a manual dexterity test were assessed before and after a 45-min walking trial. Pinch strength in the BP condition was significantly different than the control ( p < 0.05). Grooved pegboard times were faster after a seated recovery ( p = 0.026) than immediately after walking with load. Blood flow was significantly decreased to <53% of baseline ( p ≤ 0.001) in BP and BRC immediately after donning the backpack. No significant changes in grip strength or sensory threshold were measured among conditions or time points. In conclusion, pinch strength, manual dexterity and blood flow were affected by backpack carriage, but other upper limb measures remained unaffected. Highlights: Upper limb blood flow was reduced immediately after donning backpack. Blood flow volume returned to baseline after walking 45 min with backpack load. Recovery time improved pinch strength and manual dexterity after walking with load. Grip strength and touch sensation were not affected by walking with backpack load.