Correlating Helmet System Mass Properties with Pain Levels towards Helicopter Aircrew Neck-trouble Mitigating Solutions

Abstract

Royal Canadian Air Force aircrew members have reported neck-trouble prevalence rates of 75%. To address this problem, a four-year project was recently completed that proposed, developed, assessed, and provided scientific advice on neck pain solutions. One of the solutions involved a Helmet System Assessment trial where helmet system mass properties and pain levels were collected from thirty-nine helicopter aircrew. These data were used to determine a relationship between head supported mass properties and pain level. The results show that experienced aircrew with chronic neck trouble have learned to manage their pain by reducing the amount of counter weights during night sorties, while novice aircrew wear counterweights that they are issued, which is often more than needed. Thus, a possible mitigating solution is to wear minimal counter weights so to delay the onset of episodic or chronic neck pain.