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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 23, 2025

Exploring the Effects of Spaceflight on Mouse Physiology using the Open Access NASA GeneLab Platform

Exploring the Effects of Spaceflight on Mouse Physiology using the Open Access NASA GeneLab Platform

Published on: January 13, 2019

Pathophysiologic Spine Adaptations and Countermeasures for Prolonged Spaceflight.

Cody D Schlaff^1,2, Melvin D Helgeson^1,2, Scott C Wagner^1,2

¹Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, National Capital Consortium.

Clinical Spine Surgery

|July 17, 2023

Summary

Astronauts experience low back pain due to spaceflight. Understanding microgravity

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Last Updated: Jul 23, 2025

Exploring the Effects of Spaceflight on Mouse Physiology using the Open Access NASA GeneLab Platform

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Minimally Invasive Treatment for Thoracolumbar Burst Fracture Using Sagittal Alignment Screws and A Trauma Reduction Device

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Coherence between Brain Cortical Function and Neurocognitive Performance during Changed Gravity Conditions

Coherence between Brain Cortical Function and Neurocognitive Performance during Changed Gravity Conditions

Published on: May 23, 2011

Area of Science:

Space medicine
Musculoskeletal research
Human physiology

Background:

Spaceflight causes low back pain in astronauts.
Microgravity's effects on the spine are known, but mechanisms are unclear.
The Human Research Roadmap guides countermeasures for spaceflight.

Purpose of the Study:

To review current knowledge on microgravity's effects on the spinal column.
To identify needs for long-duration spaceflight countermeasures.
To assess current countermeasure efficacy.

Main Methods:

Literature review based on the Human Research Roadmap.
Examination of musculoskeletal components of the spinal column.
Analysis of current pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic countermeasures.

Main Results:

Current countermeasures are suboptimal, with continued bone and muscle loss.
Muscle phenotype and bone metabolism are altered by microgravity.
Ultrasound and beta-blockers show some promise.

Conclusions:

Further research is needed to understand microgravity's mechanisms on the spine.
Effective countermeasures are crucial for long-duration spaceflight.
Findings may benefit Earth-bound disease management.