Neck and Back Strain Profiles of Rotary-Wing Female Pilots.
Abstract
NHRC has an integrated laboratory and field study to document neck/back fatigue profiles in female military helicopter pilots. Subsequent to a 3-hr flight mission, subjects will undergo initial neck and back strength evaluation using the MedEx. Subsequently, an 8-week neck/back strengthening program will be conducted followed by another neck/back evaluation and 3-hr flight mission. Validation of a repeated jolt impact platform at the U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory, will also be conducted to ascertain if neck/back muscles fatigue at same rate as in helicopter operations. NHRC has evaluated all equipment and software needed for in-flight monitoring of pilots using portable, miniaturized video/EMG recording systems. Initial analyses of laboratory studies indicate neck strength is greater during rotations to the left. It was observed that lumbar muscle activation is associated with neck fatigue. EMG amplitude asymmetry is evident for both cervical and lumbar paraspinals during extension and flexion suggesting there is uneven strength profiles for neck/back muscles. This asymmetry may be the basis for neck/back fatigue reported by military pilots after prolonged flights. Neck/back strengthening programs may minimize uneven strength profiles and enhance pilot performance in helicopter operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 22, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA299596
Entities
People
- James A. Hodgdon
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center