Cervical injuries during high G maneuvers: a review of Naval Safety Center data, 1980-1990

As aircraft capable of sustaining high "G" maneuvers enter the U.S. Navy Fleet, the reported incidence of cervical injury to aircrew seems to have increased. To determine the extent of the problem, personal injury reports submitted to the Naval Safety Center were reviewed for the 10-year period from 1980 to 1990. In addition, confidential questionnaires were sent to flight surgeons supporting fighter/or fighter-attack units. The data collected were statistically analyzed. The incidence of cervical injuries, defined as at least one day's absence from the flight schedule, was computed. Other subjective factors, such as the type helmet worn, the cockpit position flown and the type of mission profile completed, were examined. As might be expected, the most common offender was air combat maneuvering. The most common aircraft was the F/A18, but the radar intercept officer position in the F14B was also a significant contributor. The most common injury pattern reported was a simple muscle strain. Cervical pain after high "G" missions poses a potential threat to combat readiness. However, the use of the newer lightweight helmet seems to have reduced the severity. Muscle strengthening exercises appear to help in prevention. Treatment is successful in most cases with minimal or no residuals noted. As yet, there exist little official data to support the notion of a major problem.