Heat Stress Effects on Firefighter Injury Risk
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Gradual Heat Condition, Rapid Heat Condition for reducing firefighter injury risk?
The research suggests that understanding and measuring heat tolerance through indices like the Thermal-Circulatory Ratio (TCR) and Physiological Strain Index (PSI) can help identify individuals at risk of heat-related injuries. These indices can guide the development of heat acclimatization strategies, which may be similar to the Gradual and Rapid Heat Conditions, to improve safety and performance in hot environments.12345
Is the heat stress treatment generally safe for humans?
The studies show that firefighters experience significant heat strain, with increased core and skin temperatures and heart rates during firefighting activities. While these studies focus on physiological responses rather than safety, they highlight the importance of monitoring heat stress to prevent heat-related illnesses.14567
How does the treatment for heat stress effects on firefighter injury risk differ from other treatments?
This treatment is unique because it focuses on practical cooling strategies specifically designed for firefighters to reduce heat strain and improve performance during firefighting tasks. Unlike other treatments, it incorporates the Adaptive Physiological Strain Index (aPSI) to provide a more accurate measure of physiological strain by considering skin temperature, which is crucial for those wearing protective clothing.15689
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study will examine the effect of heat stress on factors that influence musculoskeletal injury risk in firefighters. Participants will attend 4 data collection sessions. 1: informed consent, screening, and familiarization. 2: pre-tests (strength, balance, and movement quality). 3: heat stress (rapid or gradual) followed by post-tests (strength, balance, and movement quality). 4: heat stress (rapid or gradual) followed by post-tests.
Research Team
Erin McCallister, DPT
Principal Investigator
LSUHSC-Shreveport
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for firefighters who can safely undergo heat stress conditions. They'll participate in four sessions, including consent and pre-tests of strength, balance, and movement. The study excludes those with health issues that make heat exposure unsafe.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening and Familiarization
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial and familiarized with outcome measures
Pre-test Data Collection
Participants complete pre-test data collection including strength, balance, and movement quality measures
Heat Stress Testing
Participants undergo heat stress testing with rapid and gradual heat stress conditions, followed by post-test measures
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for musculoskeletal injuries and other outcomes
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Gradual Heat Condition
- Rapid Heat Condition
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport
Lead Sponsor