Cervical 3D-kinematics, muscle-properties and pain in fast-jet pilots versus non-pilots

Fast-jet pilots frequently experience high +Gz forces, leading to cervical musculoskeletal adaptations and performance impairments. The biomechanical mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear. Understanding these biomechanical adaptations is critical to developing preventive measures and ergonomic guidelines aimed at reducing the risk of injury, maintaining pilot health and ensuring long-term operational readiness, and ultimately improving flight safety.

This study compared cervical muscle properties, kinematics and movement-related pain perception between fast-jet pilots and matched non-pilot controls.

Twenty Eurofighter pilots and 20 near-matched non-pilots participated in a cross-sectional comparative study. Muscle tone, stiffness and elasticity were measured using MyotonPRO. Cervical movements were analysed via 3D motion capture. Pain was measured by the Visual Analogue Scale. Statistical group comparisons were performed.

No significant differences in cervical range of motion between groups were found (P > 0.05). Pilots exhibited reduced elasticity in the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles (P < 0.05), suggesting neuromuscular adaptation. Increased muscle tone was observed in non-pilots (P < 0.05). Pain perception did not differ significantly (P > 0.05).

Pilots maintain normal cervical mobility, compared to non-pilots, despite high-G exposure, but altered muscle properties suggest long-term adaptations. Occupational medicine approaches, including ergonomic cockpit adjustments, targeted physiotherapy, and preventive exercise protocols, are recommended to address cervical muscle adaptations identified in this study. Such strategies could mitigate musculoskeletal strain, enhance pilot wellbeing, and sustain operational safety throughout pilots' careers.