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Yin NH, Giulio ID, Hodkinson PD, Formenti F, Pollock RD. Sex differences in cervical disc height and neck muscle activation during manipulation of external load from helmets. Exp Physiol 2024; 109:1728-1738. [PMID: 39120591 PMCID: PMC11442774 DOI: 10.1113/ep091996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Neck pain associated with helmet-wear is an occupational health problem often observed in helicopter pilots and aircrew. Whether aircrew helmet wearing is associated with physiological and biomechanical differences between sexes is currently unknown. This study investigated neuromuscular activation patterns during different helmet-wearing conditions. The helmet load was manipulated through a novel Helmet Balancing System (HBS) in healthy, non-pilot male and female participants (n = 10 each, age 19-45 years) in two phases. Phase A assessed the acute effects of helmet-wear on neck muscles activation during head movements. Phase B examined changes in muscle activity and cervical disc height after wearing a helmet for 45 min. In Phase A, muscle activity was similar between sexes in many movements, but it was higher in female participants when wearing a helmet than in males. The HBS reduced muscle activity in both sexes. In Phase B, female participants exhibited a greater level of muscular fatigue, and male participants' cervical disc height was significantly decreased [5.7 (1.4) vs. 4.4 (1.5) mm, P < 0.001] after continuous wearing. Both sexes showed no significant change in muscle fatigue and disc height [male: 5.0 (1.3) vs. 5.2 (1.4) mm, P = 0.604] after applying HBS. These findings demonstrate sex-specific physiological and biomechanical responses to wearing a helmet. They may indicate different postural and motor control strategies, associated with different neck pain aetiologies in male and female aircrew, the knowledge of which is important to reduce or prevent musculoskeletal injuries associated with helmet wearing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nai-Hao Yin
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Irene Di Giulio
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Peter D Hodkinson
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Federico Formenti
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Biomechanics, University of Nebraska Omaha, Omaha, NB, USA
| | - Ross D Pollock
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
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Lang RW, Porensky P, Fraser JJ. Burden and Risk Factors of Cervical Spine Conditions in Military Aircrew From 1997 to 2015: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Mil Med 2024:usae423. [PMID: 39255238 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usae423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Military aviators may have increased risk of cervical spine injuries because of exposure to supraphysiologic forces and vibration during dynamic flight. Aviator medical attrition impairs mission readiness, decreases operational capabilities, increases overall DoDcosts, and decreases retention of seasoned aviators. This study evaluated incidence and risk factors for cervical spine conditions in U.S. military aviators from 1997 to 2015. MATERIALS AND METHODS The Defense Medical Epidemiological Database was queried for aviators with a diagnosis of cervical spine conditions. Pertinent ICD-9 codes for cervical spine pathology were ascertained from U.S. Army, Air Force, and Naval Air Forces aeromedical references. Negative binomial regressions assessed sex, age, service, aircraft, and year on incidence of conditions. Rates were compared to non-aviator controls. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board at the Naval Health Research Center (NHRC.2020.0205-NHSR). RESULTS Incidence rates were 9.78 to 12.57/1,000 person-years for neck pain, 2.04 to 3.89/1,000 person-years for degenerative conditions without neurological involvement, and 0.94 to 1.36/1,000 person-years for degenerative conditions with neurological involvement. Aviation occupation (relative risk [RR] 1.41-2.05), female sex (RR 3.32-7.89), age over 40 (RR 2.39-4.62), and service in the Army or Marine Corps (RR 1.62-2.14) were risk factors. CONCLUSIONS Military aviators had a statistically significant increase in risk of neck pain and medically disqualifying degenerative cervical spine conditions compared to non-aviator controls. Rates of neck pain increased in all aviators over the study epoch. Possible explanations could be related to the operational demands and the increased use of forward helmet-mounted display systems during the study period, a supposition that requires further investigation. There was no significant difference in rates of neck pain or degenerative cervical conditions between aircraft platforms (fighter/bomber, other fixed wing, and rotary wing). Female sex, age over 40 years, and Army/Marine Corps service were the greatest risk factors for neck pain and degenerative cervical spine conditions. Targeted prevention programs and expanded treatment modalities are necessary to reduce aviator attrition and Department of Defense cost burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W Lang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
| | - Paul Porensky
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
| | - John J Fraser
- Operational Readiness & Health Directorate, Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA 92106-3521, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- Sports Medicine Research Institute, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536-0200, USA
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Yang F, Xie B, Zhang H, Li T, Mao J, Chen Z, Peng Y, Li T, Sun S, Chen J, Chen Y, Du J. Return to flight duty (RTFD) after posterior lumbar spine surgery for symptomatic lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and lumbar isthmic spondylolisthesis (LIS) in Chinese military pilots. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25:81. [PMID: 38245679 PMCID: PMC10799416 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07175-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Symptomatic lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and lumbar isthmic spondylolisthesis (LIS) present significant challenges for military pilots, which may result in grounding if not effectively managed. Surgical treatment for LDH and LIS may offer a pathway to return to flight duty (RTFD), but recent data on this crucial topic is lacking. This study seeks to address this gap by investigating the RTFD outcomes among Chinese military pilots who have undergone lumbar spine surgery for symptomatic LDH and LIS. METHODS A retrospective review was conducted on active-duty military pilots who underwent isolated decompressive or fusion procedures at an authorized military medical center from March 1, 2007, to March 1, 2023. The analysis utilized descriptive statistics to examine demographic, occupational, surgical, and outcome data, with a particular focus on preoperative flight status, recommended clearance by spine surgeons, and actual RTFD outcomes and time. RESULTS Among the identified cases of active-duty military pilots with LDH or LIS treated by lumbar surgery (n = 24), 70.8% (17 of 24) consistently maintained RTFD status without encountering surgical complications or medical issues during the follow-up period. Of the seven pilots who did not RTFD, one retired within a year of surgery, two had anterior cruciate ligament injuries, three had residual radicular symptoms, and one had chronic low back pain. Excluding pilots who retired and did not RTFD for reasons unrelated to their lumbar conditions, the RTFD rate stood at 81.0% (17 of 21). The median time for recommended clearance by spine surgeons was 143.0 days (inter-quartile range, 116.5-196.0), while the median duration for actual RTFD attainment was 221.0 days (inter-quartile range, 182.0-300.0). The median follow-up post-lumbar surgery was 1.7 years (inter-quartile range, 0.4-2.9). CONCLUSION Most military pilots diagnosed with symptomatic LDH and LIS can continue their careers and regain active-duty flight status following lumbar spine surgery, as reflected by the high RTFD rate. Lumbar spine surgery can successfully alleviate the physical constraints associated with spinal conditions, facilitating the return of military pilots to their demanding profession.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengyuan Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China
- Graduate School of Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Bowen Xie
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China
- The Fifth School of Clinical Medicine, Air Force Clinical College, Anhui Medical University, Anhui, 230032, China
| | - Hongxing Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Tianqi Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China
- Graduate School of Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Jian Mao
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China
- Graduate School of Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Zhiqiang Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China
- Graduate School of Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Ye Peng
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Tengfei Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Siguo Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Jingyang Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Yufei Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China.
| | - Junjie Du
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China.
- Graduate School of Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China.
- The Fifth School of Clinical Medicine, Air Force Clinical College, Anhui Medical University, Anhui, 230032, China.
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Wallace JB, Osmotherly PG, Gabbett TJ, Spratford W, Newman PM. Surveillance is the first step to preventing injury among fast jet aircrew: results of a 2-year prospective cohort study. Occup Environ Med 2023; 80:617-625. [PMID: 37845016 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2023-108990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Injury surveillance is imperative for injury prevention but difficult in military populations. Our objective was to accurately describe the pattern of musculoskeletal complaints among Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) fast jet aircrew (FJA) using the validated University of Canberra Fast Jet Aircrew Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (UC-FJAMQ) over a 2-year period, and determine injury burden on the workforce and operational capability. METHODS 306 RAAF FJA were monitored over a 2-year period (4×5 month reporting periods). Musculoskeletal complaint episodes (MCEs) were captured weekly using the UC-FJAMQ. Time loss episodes (TLEs) were captured from the UC-FJAMQ and injury registers completed by embedded physiotherapists. Cumulative severity and operational impact scores from the UC-FJAMQ, and time loss duration, were used to describe severity and calculate burden. RESULTS Mean weekly UC-FJAMQ response rate was 62%. 1012 MCEs were captured, with a mean weekly prevalence of 14.9% (95% CI 14.2-15.6), and incidence of 4.1 episodes per person-year (95% CI 3.9-4.4). A total of 145 TLEs were captured, with a mean 5-month prevalence of 12.4% (range 8.9-15.3%), and incidence of 0.37 episodes per person-year (95% CI 0.31-0.43). Spinal regions accounted for 81% of MCEs and contributed 76% and 85% of burden in relation to cumulative severity and operational impact, respectively. 57% of TLE burden came from spinal regions. CONCLUSIONS Despite modest weekly UC-FJAMQ response rates, musculoskeletal complaints were shown to be widespread and negatively impact operational capability. Future injury prevention efforts among FJA should focus on spinal regions, particularly the neck.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Byron Wallace
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE), University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Ethos Health, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter G Osmotherly
- School of Health Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tim J Gabbett
- Gabbett Performance Solutions, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, Queensland, Australia
| | - Wayne Spratford
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE), University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Phil Mark Newman
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE), University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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Yang F, Wang Z, Zhang H, Xie B, Zhao H, Gan L, Li T, Zhang J, Chen Z, Li T, Huang X, Chen Y, Du J. Prevalence and risk factors of occupational neck pain in Chinese male fighter pilots: a cross-sectional study based on questionnaire and cervical sagittal alignment. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1226930. [PMID: 38026361 PMCID: PMC10643867 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1226930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Neck pain (NP) is a common musculoskeletal disorder among fighter pilots and has become a rising concern due to its detrimental impact on military combat effectiveness. The occurrence of NP is influenced by a variety of factors, but less attention has been paid to the association of NP with demographic, occupational, and cervical sagittal characteristics in this group. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of NP in Chinese male fighter pilots using a questionnaire and cervical sagittal measurements. Methods Demographic and flight-related data, as well as musculoskeletal pain information, were gathered from Chinese male fighter pilots via a self-report questionnaire. Cervical sagittal parameters were measured and subtypes were classified using standardized lateral cervical radiographs. Differences in various factors between the case and control groups were analyzed using t-tests or chi-square tests. Binary logistic regressions were conducted to explore potential risk factors contributing to NP. Predictors were presented as crude odds ratios (CORs) and adjusted odds ratios (AORs), along with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results A total of 185 male fighter pilots were included in this cross-sectional study. Among them, 96 (51.9%) reported experiencing NP within the previous 12 months. The multivariate regression analysis revealed that continuous flight training (AOR: 4.695, 95% CI: 2.226-9.901, p < 0.001), shoulder pain (AOR: 11.891, 95% CI: 4.671-30.268, p < 0.001), and low back pain (AOR: 3.452, 95% CI: 1.600-7.446, p = 0.002) were significantly associated with NP. Conclusion The high 12-month prevalence of NP among Chinese male fighter pilots confirms the existence of this growing problem. Continuous flight training, shoulder pain, and low back pain have significant negative effects on pilots' neck health. Effective strategies are necessary to establish appropriate training schedules to reduce NP, and a more holistic perspective on musculoskeletal protection is needed. Given that spinal integrated balance and compensatory mechanisms may maintain individuals in a subclinical state, predicting the incidence of NP in fighter pilots based solely on sagittal characteristics in the cervical region may be inadequate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengyuan Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of the PLA, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhong Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Central Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Daping Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongxing Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of the PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Bowen Xie
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of the PLA, Beijing, China
- Air Force Clinical College, The Fifth School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Institute for Traffic Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lu Gan
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of the PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Tengfei Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of the PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Graduate School of Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhiqiang Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of the PLA, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tianqi Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of the PLA, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaogang Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of the PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Yufei Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of the PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Junjie Du
- Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center of the PLA, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Air Force Clinical College, The Fifth School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Gao Y, Chen Z, Chen S, Wang S, Lin J. Risk factors for neck pain in college students: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1502. [PMID: 37553622 PMCID: PMC10408143 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16212-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 epidemic, the prevalence of neck pain among college students has increased due to the shift from offline to online learning and increasing academic and employment pressures. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to identify the personal, occupational, and psychological factors associated with the development of neck pain to promote the development of preventive strategies and early intervention treatment. METHODS Seven electronic databases were searched from inception to December 2022 for cross-sectional studies, cohort studies, case----control studies, and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on neck pain. The quality of the selected studies were assessed by American Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) or the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to evaluate the effects of the included risk factors on neck pain. RESULTS Thirty studies were included, including 18,395 participants. And a total of 33 potentially associated risk factors were identified. Ultimately, 11 risk factors were included in the meta-analysis after assessing, and all results were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The factors supported by strong evidence mainly include the improper use of the pillow (OR = 2.20, 95% CI: 1.39 to 3.48), lack of exercise (OR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.53 to 2.30), improper sitting posture (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.39 to 2.78), history of neck and shoulder trauma (OR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.79 to 3.01), senior grade (OR = 2.86, 95% CI: 2.07 to 3.95), staying up late (OR = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.35 to 2.41), long-time electronic product usage daily (OR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.33 to 1.76), long-time to bow head (OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.58 to 2.64), and emotional problems (OR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.66 to 2.63). Risk factors supported by moderate evidence were high stress (OR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.02 to 2.52) and female gender (OR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.52 to 1.87). CONCLUSION This study obtained 11 main risk factors affecting college students neck pain, including improper use of the pillow, lack of exercise, improper sitting posture, history of neck and shoulder trauma, senior grade, staying up late, long-term electronic product usage daily, long time to bow head, high stress, emotional problems and female gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifang Gao
- School of Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhiming Chen
- The Third Hospital of Fuqing City, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shaoqing Chen
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
- Fujian Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Geriatric Rehabilitation and Industry Promotion, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shizhong Wang
- School of Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China.
- Fujian Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Geriatric Rehabilitation and Industry Promotion, Fuzhou, China.
| | - Jianping Lin
- School of Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China.
- Fujian Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Geriatric Rehabilitation and Industry Promotion, Fuzhou, China.
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Al Rumaithi M, Al Qubaisi M, Al Suwaidi M, Al Zaabi F, Campos LA, Baltatu OC, Al Tunaiji H. Determinants of cervical spine disorders in military pilots: a systematic review. Occup Med (Lond) 2023; 73:236-242. [PMID: 37312576 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqad067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neck pain and cervical spine disorders are widespread among military cockpit aircrew pilots and are often recognized as occupational stressors. AIMS This systematic review aimed to identify significant determinants for military pilot neck pain and cervical spine disorders determined through multivariable logistic regression studies. METHODS This systematic review was conducted according to the recommendations of the Statement of Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses [PRISMA]-P). The following databases were searched for literature: Medline and Embase. We included studies that studied neck pain, cervical spine disorders, and/or radiological abnormalities and associated exposures (adjusted odds ratios, ORadj) in military cockpit aircrew. The trustworthiness, relevance and results of the published papers were evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical checklist. RESULTS A total of three studies quantified the strength of the correlations between exposures and outcomes. Significant determinants/risk factors of neck pain, cervical spine disorders and radiological abnormalities were identified as age (ORadj: 1.092 [95% CI 1.054, 1.132]), fighter type (ORadj: 3.9 [95% CI 1.1, 13.9]) and absolute rotation angle of C2-7 (ARA) (ORadj: 0.91 [CI 0.85, 0.98]). The following variables were unable to demonstrate statistical significance: flying hours, body height and body mass index. CONCLUSIONS Military cockpit aircrew's frequent neck pain after a flight raises concerns about cervical spine disorders. Age, fighter type and ARA C2-7 are strong predictors of neck pain and cervical spine disorders. More research is needed on occupational determinants and risk factors for neck pain and cervical spine disorders in military cockpit aircrew.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Al Rumaithi
- Zayed Military University & Affiliated Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi 3740, United Arab Emirates
| | - M Al Qubaisi
- Zayed Military University & Affiliated Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi 3740, United Arab Emirates
| | - M Al Suwaidi
- Zayed Military University & Affiliated Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi 3740, United Arab Emirates
| | - F Al Zaabi
- Zayed Military University & Affiliated Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi 3740, United Arab Emirates
| | - L A Campos
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
- Center of Innovation, Technology and Education (CITE), Anima Institute, Anhembi Morumbi University, São José dos Campos 12247-016, Brazil
| | - O C Baltatu
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
- Center of Innovation, Technology and Education (CITE), Anima Institute, Anhembi Morumbi University, São José dos Campos 12247-016, Brazil
| | - H Al Tunaiji
- Zayed Military University & Affiliated Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi 3740, United Arab Emirates
- Academic and Research Committee, Zayed Military University, Abu Dhabi 3740, United Arab Emirates
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Heng W, Wei F, Liu Z, Yan X, Zhu K, Yang F, Du M, Zhou C, Qian J. Physical exercise improved muscle strength and pain on neck and shoulder in military pilots. Front Physiol 2022; 13:973304. [PMID: 36117716 PMCID: PMC9479108 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.973304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To evaluate the effects of physical exercise on neck and shoulder muscle strength and pain in military pilots. Method: Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Library databases were searched studies published up to April 1, 2022. Studies that met the screening criteria were included in the final meta-analysis. We calculated neck and shoulder maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs), prevalence of pain, and pain intensity. Heterogeneity was explored by subgroup and sensitivity analyses. Result: A total of 15 studies with 907 participants were included. In the exercise group, muscle strength was significantly increased in four directions of neck motion: flexion (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.08–0.82), extension (SMD = 0.63; 95% CI, 0.27–1.00), right lateral flexion (Rtflx) (SMD = 0.53; 95% CI, 0.12–0.94), and left lateral flexion (Ltflx) (SMD = 0.50; 95% CI, 0.09–0.91). Subgroup analysis showed that fighter pilots, strength plus endurance training, and a follow-up period <20 weeks exhibited more significant muscle strength improvements than helicopter pilots, simple strength training, and a follow-up period ≥20 weeks. Overall, the pooled odds ratio (OR) for the effect of physical exercise on the prevalence of neck pain was not statistically significant (I2 = 60%). Sensitivity analysis revealed that the heterogeneity was restored after removing each of two studies (I2 = 47%), and the pooled OR was statistically significant (OR = 0.46; 95% CI, 0.23 to 0.94, or OR = 0.47; 95% CI, 0.24–0.91). Furthermore, compared with observational studies (OS), the reduction in the prevalence of neck pain was more significant in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (OR = 0.37; 95% CI, 0.18–0.78). No significant differences in the effects of exercise on shoulder muscle strength and neck and shoulder pain intensity were observed. Conclusion: Physical exercise can improve neck muscle strength in military pilots. After removing studies that may be the source of heterogeneity, exercise showed a protective effect on neck pain, especially in RCTs. The conclusion that exercise had no effects on shoulder muscle strength and pain intensity should be taken with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Heng
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Feilong Wei
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhisheng Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- 94333 Military Hospital, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaodong Yan
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Kailong Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Mingrui Du
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Chengpei Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Chengpei Zhou, ; Jixian Qian,
| | - Jixian Qian
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Chengpei Zhou, ; Jixian Qian,
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Wallace J, Osmotherly P, Gabbett T, Spratford W, Niyonsenga T, Newman P. A Validated Injury Surveillance and Monitoring Tool for Fast Jet Aircrew: Translating Sports Medicine Paradigms to a Military Population. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2022; 8:92. [PMID: 35841441 PMCID: PMC9288569 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-022-00484-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Military populations, including fast jet aircrew (FJA - aka fighter aircrew/pilots), commonly suffer from musculoskeletal complaints, which reduce performance and operational capability. Valid surveillance tools and agreed recordable injury definitions are lacking. Our objective was to develop and then evaluate the validity of a musculoskeletal complaints surveillance and monitoring tool for FJA. METHODS A Delphi study with international experts sought consensus on recordable injury definitions and important content for use in a surveillance and monitoring tool for FJA. Using these results and feedback from end-users (FJA), the University of Canberra Fast Jet Aircrew Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (UC-FJAMQ) was developed. Following its use with 306 Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) FJA over 4 × five-month reporting periods, validity of the UC-FJAMQ was evaluated via multi-level factor analysis (MFA) and compared with routine methods of injury surveillance. RESULTS Consensus was achieved for: eight words/descriptors for defining a musculoskeletal complaint; six definitions of recordable injury; and 14 domains important for determining overall severity. The UC-FJAMQ was developed and refined. MFA identified three distinct dimensions within the 11 items used to determine severity: operational capability, symptoms, and care-seeking. MFA further highlighted that symptom severity and seeking medical attention were poor indicators of the impact musculoskeletal complaints have upon operational capability. One hundred and fifty-two episodes of time loss were identified, with the UC-FJAMQ identifying 79% of these, while routine methods identified 49%. Despite modest weekly reporting rates (61%), the UC-FJAMQ outperformed routine surveillance methods. CONCLUSIONS The UC-FJAMQ was developed to specifically address the complexities of injury surveillance with FJA, which are similar to those noted in other military and sporting populations. The results demonstrated the UC-FJAMQ to be sensitive and valid within a large group of FJA over 4 × five-month reporting periods. Adoption of consistent, sensitive, and valid surveillance methods will strengthen the FJA injury prevention literature, ultimately enhancing their health, performance, and operational capability.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Wallace
- University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE), Bruce, ACT Australia
| | - Peter Osmotherly
- School of Health Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW Australia
| | - Tim Gabbett
- Gabbett Performance Solutions, Brisbane, QLD Australia
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD Australia
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University, Ballarat, VIC Australia
| | - Wayne Spratford
- University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE), Bruce, ACT Australia
| | - Theo Niyonsenga
- University of Canberra Health Research Institute, Faculty of Health, Bruce, ACT Australia
| | - Phil Newman
- University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE), Bruce, ACT Australia
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Newman P, Riches A, Mara J, Spratford W. The effect of helmet mass and aircraft acceleration on cervical spine loads during typical fast jet aircraft pilot head motions. J Sci Med Sport 2022; 25:855-860. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2022.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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