ABSTRACT
Aircrew may be expected to suffer from the full range of orthopaedic disorders seen in the general population of a similar age. Indeed, pilots may be more likely to engage in adventurous sports both on and off duty and are therefore more likely to suffer some form of sport-related trauma during their career. In addition, their occupation may make them more vulnerable to certain types of back and neck injury. This chapter takes a systematic approach to those problems likely to be encountered in managing aircrew. The majority of patients suffering musculoskeletal symptoms will be managed successfully with analgesics and the passage of time, or the attention of physiotherapists, osteopaths, or chiropractors. Orthopaedic surgeons might operate on the spine or limbs where there is reduced function due to congenital deformity or there is degenerative change, or to improve the expected outcome after trauma. Muscle strength, range of joint movement and dexterity vary within the population, and there is a spectrum of performance that might be considered normal. These features, when considered in one person, also vary with age, training and practice.
