Personal Protective Equipment Effects on Shoulder Pain in Tactical Populations
Faculty Mentor
Joeseph Kardouni
Location
Savannah Ballroom
Type of Research
On-going
Session Format
Poster Presentation
College
Waters College of Health Professions
Department
Doctorate of Physical Therapy
Abstract
Musculoskeletal injuries are the leading cause of reduced operational readiness in tactical athletes (military, law enforcement, fire service, and other first response personnel). Tactical athletes often use personal protective equipment (PPE) like ballistic vests, body armor, or self-contained breathing apparatus to protect them from occupational hazards. This protective equipment is often worn over the shoulders and torso. Protective equipment is often reported as a contributing factor to musculoskeletal pain or injuries. This study aimed to examine the risk of shoulder injuries or pain in tactical athletes who must wear PPE. A literature review was conducted using PubMed and CINAHL, and articles were screened and appraised for quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) version for cohort studies. Based on the findings of this critical article appraisal, the use of PPE in the tactical population puts an individual at higher risk for developing acute or chronic musculoskeletal shoulder pain compared to individuals who do not wear PPE. These findings offer valuable insight into regional musculoskeletal pain attributed to PPE. This can inform future research and efforts to optimize PPE ergonomics or training programs in tactical athletes to better mitigate risk for occupation-related shoulder pain.
Program Description
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Start Date
4-21-2026 10:00 AM
End Date
4-21-2026 12:00 PM
Recommended Citation
Mishkin, Melissa and Olmstead, Clifton, "Personal Protective Equipment Effects on Shoulder Pain in Tactical Populations" (2026). GS4 Student Scholars Symposium. 21.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/research_symposium/2026A/2026A/21
Personal Protective Equipment Effects on Shoulder Pain in Tactical Populations
Savannah Ballroom
Musculoskeletal injuries are the leading cause of reduced operational readiness in tactical athletes (military, law enforcement, fire service, and other first response personnel). Tactical athletes often use personal protective equipment (PPE) like ballistic vests, body armor, or self-contained breathing apparatus to protect them from occupational hazards. This protective equipment is often worn over the shoulders and torso. Protective equipment is often reported as a contributing factor to musculoskeletal pain or injuries. This study aimed to examine the risk of shoulder injuries or pain in tactical athletes who must wear PPE. A literature review was conducted using PubMed and CINAHL, and articles were screened and appraised for quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) version for cohort studies. Based on the findings of this critical article appraisal, the use of PPE in the tactical population puts an individual at higher risk for developing acute or chronic musculoskeletal shoulder pain compared to individuals who do not wear PPE. These findings offer valuable insight into regional musculoskeletal pain attributed to PPE. This can inform future research and efforts to optimize PPE ergonomics or training programs in tactical athletes to better mitigate risk for occupation-related shoulder pain.
