APPROACH:
Height changes were measured on two days at approximately L-60 days to document the normal variation in height for the individual participant. Basic instruction was given in how to complete the pain diagram, pain questionnaire, and the proper measuring technique. In flight, upon awakening, the astronauts recorded their symptoms from the previous 24-hour period, and performed a height measurement. The measurement was done by aligning themselves flat against the surface where the measuring tape had been pre-placed. With their heels firm against the "floor," the height was measured and noted on the daily pain diagram. This technique was quite simple and required no stowed hardware or locker space. The daily pain diagrams were stowed as a separate book in the flight data file.

The study involved: 1) preflight height change baseline data collection, 2) preflight back examination and back history, 3) daily in-flight reporting of back pain and other related information on a specially designed pain diagram, 4) daily in-flight measurement of height, and 5) postflight back examination and one month follow-up.

RESULTS:
Measurements demonstrate a significant height increase within the first 24 hours of space flight in nearly all subjects. Seventy percent of subjects reported back symptoms of some degree. In addition, data demonstrated a shortening of the height following an extra-vehicular activity (EVA) and a re-growth to pre-EVA microgravity height within 24 hours post-EVA.

Back pain

Back pain patterns

Height changes

Pain diagrams