Review of National Work Programme on the long term effects of Sustained high G on the Cervical Spine

http://www.dtic.mil/cgi-bin/GetTRDoc?AD=ADA499773&Location=U2&doc=GetTRDoc.pdf




Empirical evidence, as well as long term studies with radiographic techniques, suggests that flying high performance aircraft has an adverse effect on the cervical spine of aviators. The load an aviator’s neck supports is also exacerbated by the increasing use of head supported devices. As such, the effects of acceleration, vibration and repeated jolt also increase the risk of cervical injury to the cervical spines of helicopter pilots and crew. Thus, the RTO-group HFM-083 was created to determine the extent of the effects due to long term exposures to sustained G levels and to develop mitigation recommendations. As causes, consequences and counteracting measures are multidimensional and complex, different nations have focused on diverse aspects of the problem. The contributions from seven national programmes are reported. These comprise Aircrew questionnaires, countermeasures, treatment, characterisation of the
spinal pain beyond questionnaires, muscular activity (EMG), imaging (MRI), and modelling.
Recommendations for future work are provided. One of these is the creation of a common database of biomechanical analyses, methodologies, and human responses to apply to common areas of concern across the member nations. The database should comprise standardized data capture and management and linked to information about intrinsic factors and medical issues, ergonomic and equipment issues (helmets and seating), and modelling. Such a system could be used within NATO to facilitate evidence-based decisions (e.g., procurement, policy, training, interventions for injury) and help to identify future research requirements.