In the heart-pounding action scenes of your favorite blockbuster, it's not always the A-list actor taking the risks but the unsung heroes-;stunt performers-;who bring those breathtaking moments to life. However, behind the glamour lies a grim reality: the reluctance of these daredevils to report head trauma, fearing it could jeopardize their careers. In the recently released blockbuster, "The Fall Guy," audiences get a behind-the-scenes look at what stunt professionals go through to create those most thrilling moments, and although this film celebrates these skilled professionals, it does not highlight the impact the stunts can have on their health.
Ohio University researchers Dr. Jeffrey Russell and Dr. Elizabeth Beverly have delved into this issue through a new qualitative study published in the "Journal of Occupational Medicine & Toxicology," amplifying the voices of stunt performers who often go unheard.
Their research, published as a follow-up to a previous study, shines a light on the challenges stunt professionals face regarding self-reporting of head injuries and the potential long-term consequences for their health and livelihoods. This qualitative study allows for stunt performers to describe in their own words about their experiences with head injuries, how they are managed and how the industry can improve upon ensuring stunt performers' health and wellness into their future." Dr.
Jeffrey Russell, associate professor in the College of Health Sciences and Profession.