Promoting healthy backs in schools: an evaluative study

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the impact of educating adolescents in practical ways of looking after their backs to reduce the incidence of back‐pain, with particular focus on the use and carrying method of ergonomically designed schoolbags.

Design/methodology/approach

An educational leaflet containing a range of back care information was designed specifically for a target population group of Year 7 schoolchildren, aged 11 to 12 years, and distributed to Year 7 students (n=682) attending three main secondary education schools in West Sussex during September 2004. A feedback form was used to evaluate the impact of the leaflet on one class in each school (total n=81).

Findings

The main findings in this paper indicated education had immediate positive impact on students' awareness of the importance of looking after their backs, and achieving positive back‐health. Information gained was likely to influence future choice of schoolbag type, and intention to change to more back‐health aware schoolbook and equipment carrying behaviours.

Research limitations/implications

The paper shows that long‐term impact was not evaluated, and is a limitation of this study. Further research is required to evaluate the long‐term impact of education on back care in adolescents, and at which age optimum educational impact in this area is gained.

Originality/value

This paper contributes evidence, which could be used to inform national and international health agendas, focusing on the specific area of healthy back education for adolescents through a school‐based health promotion initiative.

Citation

Springett, A.G. and Wise, J.E.M. (2007), "Promoting healthy backs in schools: an evaluative study", Health Education, Vol. 107 No. 5, pp. 463-479. https://doi.org/10.1108/09654280710778592