Tolerance of the Head and Neck to -Gx Inertial Loading of the Head
Abstract
The purpose of this investigation has been threefold: (1) to review the literature for experimental results which either contribute quantitative tolerance data or data supporting mechanisms or criteria of injury; (2) develop new methods of investigating neck response to indirect loading; (3) further refine a mathematical neck model. It has been found that retinal hemorrhage or mild concussion were the threshold injuries produced in forward facing harnessed individuals subjected to 39-45 g sled acceleration impulses lasting on the order of 0.270 ms depending on head-neck orientation. On the other hand, field collision data indicates insignificant head-neck injuries of belted passengers from purely inertial loading of the head due to collisions at highway automotive speeds. However, in abrupt neck stretch experiments with cats it has been found that neck stretch and possible odontoid process - cord interaction are related to unconsciousness in this species. Tetanizing the cervical muscles reduced the incidence of 'concussion' symptoms produced in this animal. Collars on monkeys subjected to flexion producing occipital impacts, were reported to provide concussion protection. While no clear picture of tolerable levels or even criteria of injury can be pulled out of this array of evidence, it is clear that until the problem can be better defined, relative motion between head and neck and a position which will minimize stretch in the retinal attachments should be part of protective systems, where feasible, when abrupt -G(x) can be anticipated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 09, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA097632
Entities
People
- Voight R. Hodgson
Organizations
- Wayne State University