Evaluation of Environmental Sensors in Training: Performance Outcomes and Symptoms during Airborne and Combatives Training
Abstract
Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) continues to be a significant issue facing the U.S. military. The current report presents a detailed methodology and preliminary data trends for the Environmental Sensors in Training program to better understand the feasibility and potential validity of using biomechanical environmental sensor technologies to improve the detection of potentially concussive events. Participants from two military training programs (Airborne and Combatives) completed several self-report measures (Military Acute Concussion Evaluation, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist, Concussion History Questionnaire) and a neurocognitive test battery called DETECT (Display Enhanced Testing for Cognitive Impairment and mTBI) at multiple time points during training while wearing biomechanical environmental sensors. Results indicate that head impacts are common during training operations; however, loss of consciousness and amnesia after following a head impact were rare. For participants reporting a head impact, headache was the most commonly reported symptom. Trends in DETECT neurocognitive data suggest some differing patterns of performance for participants experiencing a head impact compared to participants who did not. Methodology and recommendations are discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 27, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1083505
Entities
People
- Amanda M. Kelley
- Brian Novotny
- Colby Mathews
- Kyle A. Bernhardt
- Tyler F. Rooks
Organizations
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Lab