Ejections & Spinal/Nerve Damage
Seeking all those who have survived an ejection and have subsequently suffered any unusual symptoms which could be related to nerve damage.
Two of my flight test friends were involved with the development and use of an ejection seat trainer which used gas generator cartridges to fire the seat up a tower. One now has lost most of his control over the muscles of both legs and the muscles are atrophying. The other has developed some unidentifyable nervous problem which occasionally leads to a loss of consciousness. Both seem to be related to spinal nerve damage.
I also understand that there is a former US astronaut who has identical effects to legs.
The nerves which may be subject to damage during vertical g compression of the spine may be the source of the debilitating effects.
Last edited by Milt; 27th August 2011 at 02:28.