Accession Number:

AD1098433

Title:

Human Response Effects to Whole Body Vibration in Aviation: A Brief Review

Descriptive Note:

Technical Report

Corporate Author:

ARMY AEROMEDICAL RESEARCH LAB FORT RUCKER AL FORT RUCKER United States

Personal Author(s):

• Ballard,Matthew T
• Madison,Adrienne M.
• Chancey,Valeta C

Report Date:

2020-04-21

Pagination or Media Count:

18.0

Abstract:

This document serves as a brief summary of the current state of knowledge regarding the biomechanical and physiological effects of whole-body vibration WBV exposure. While extensive research has shown the link between long-term WBV exposure and spinal disorders, little is known about the dose-response relationship from specific frequencies. Historically it has been recommended to avoid or minimize exposure to frequencies that overlap with resonance of the human body or its components, but many rotary-wing aircraft operate in these same ranges. More research is needed to understand the effects of these vibrations on acute and chronic injury risk and to build the dose-response relationship. This document provides an overview of effects deemed by the authors to be most relevant to aviator WBV exposure and the direction of current and proposed research from the U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory.

Descriptors:

• musculoskeletal system
• vibration
• resonant frequency
• motion sickness
• rotary wing aircraft
• pain
• spine
• heart rate
• exposure (physiology)
• military aviation

Subject Categories:

• Helicopters
• Anatomy and Physiology

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE