Flight-Related Musculoskeletal Pain and Discomfort in General Aviation Pilots From the United Kingdom and Ireland

Abstract

Flight-related musculoskeletal pain and discomfort was examined in general aviation pilots to determine its prevalence. The location, frequency, and severity of the pain, as well as the time for pain to onset and subside were recorded. Associations between pain and personal and flight-related characteristics were explored to determine whether any of these factors increased the risk of pain. Participants consisted of 174 pilots from 45 aerodromes around the United Kingdom and Ireland. Pain and discomfort was reported by 53% of the pilots. The most common pain was reported in the lower back, where it occurred daily or at least weekly, and was of mild to moderate intensity. Pain generally onset after 90 min of flying, and had subsided within 12 hr postflight, although the majority of pain had subsided within 60 min. The occurrence of pain and discomfort was positively correlated with both total flight experience and annual flight hours. Most flight-related pain was caused by postural fatigue and static stress, because most pain was mild and transient, subsiding rapidly post- flight, and was unrelated to age. The use of personal lumbar supports is recommended as the most effective short-term solution to reduce back pain and discomfort.