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MedicineAnatomy and Physiology

Neck and Back Pain in E-2C HAWKEYE Aircrew

Authors: T. A. Loomis; J. A. Hodgdon; L. Hervig; W. K. Prusacyzk; NAVAL HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER SAN DIEGO CA
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to determine select characteristics of neck and back symptoms among E-2C Hawkeye aircrew. One hundred eighty-five E-2C aircrew volunteered to complete a neck and back pain and symptoms survey. The mean (+- SD) age and flight time were 30.6 (+- 4.3) years and 1392 (+- 1003) hr, respectively. Seventy-eight percent of pilots and 74% of Naval Flight Officers (NFO) reported neck and/or back pain in the past year. Similarly, 68% of pilots and 70% of NFO reported experiencing neck and/or back symptoms in their past 30 flights. The most common symptom was an in-flight dull ache, lasting 24-48 hours. Although the vast majority of the subjects reported they perform aerobic exercises (94%), calisthenics (73%), and resistance exercises (62%) on a regular basis, this did not affect their susceptibility to neck and/or back pain. Changes in cockpit ergonomics and the implementation of a stretching program for the aircrew may be the best remedy to the problem.

Limitations: APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
Description: Rept. for Jun-Dec 1997
Pages: 17
Report Date: MAY 1999
Report Number: A490783
Keywords relating to this report:
*FLIGHT CREWS
*NECK(ANATOMY)
*NECK_ANATOMY_
*Pain
ERGONOMICS
NAVAL AIRCRAFT
NAVAL PERSONNEL
OFFICER PERSONNEL
PILOTS
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
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