Impact of Heavy Backpacks on Upper Limb Function
Official title: Effect of Heavy Backpack Load Carriage on Acute Blood Flow, Nerve Conduction, Biomechanics and Dexterity of the Upper Limbs
Funded at California State University San Marcos · NIH-10818414 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how carrying heavy backpacks affects blood flow and movement in the arms and hands of military and first responders, to help find ways to prevent injuries and keep their hands working well.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California State University San Marcos NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Marcos, United States) |
| Project start | April 19, 2021 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $111,750 |
| NIH project number | 5SC3GM139683-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10818414 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are military personnel, first responders, and law enforcement officers who frequently carry heavy backpacks as part of their duties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not engage in activities involving heavy load carriage or those with pre-existing upper limb conditions unrelated to load carriage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how carrying heavy backpacks affects blood flow, nerve function, and dexterity in the upper limbs of individuals, particularly those in military and first responder roles. The study focuses on the physiological changes that occur when these individuals carry loads that can be as heavy as 60% of their body weight. By examining the relationship between load carriage and manual function, the research aims to identify risks of injury and develop strategies to prevent long-term impairment of hand function. Participants will undergo assessments of grip strength, pinch strength, and sensory thresholds to understand the acute effects of load on their upper limbs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety measures and interventions that enhance the functional capabilities of individuals who regularly carry heavy loads.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on heavy backpack loads is relatively novel, similar studies have shown that load carriage can impact physical performance and injury risk in various populations.
Where this research is happening
-
California State University San Marcos
San Marcos, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schmidt, Deanna J — California State University San Marcos
- Study coordinator: Schmidt, Deanna J
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.