Motion sickness decreases low back function and changes gene expression in military aircrew

Area of Science:

• Aerospace Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering
• Human Factors

Background:

• Motion sickness and low back disorders are common issues for military aircrews.
• These conditions can negatively impact health, performance, and operational effectiveness.
• This study investigated potential links between motion sickness and low back disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the effects of motion sickness stimuli on biomechanical factors.
• To examine the influence of motion sickness on genetic factors.
• To assess potential causal pathways for motion sickness and low back disorders.

Main Methods:

• Military personnel were exposed to mild or aggressive motion sickness stimuli.
• Biomechanical variables (postural stability, gait, low back function, spine loading) were measured.
• Gene expression was analyzed before and after motion sickness exposure.

Main Results:

• Aggressive motion sickness significantly increased postural sway, while mild exposure decreased it.
• Both stimuli reduced low back function, significantly for the mild protocol.
• Both stimuli induced significant changes in gene expression related to various biological processes.

Conclusions:

• Motion sickness can alter standing balance and decrease low back function.
• It may also lead to changes in gene expression linked to bone, muscle, and inflammatory processes.
• Preliminary evidence suggests a potential link between motion sickness and low back disorders.