The latest offering from Shock Doctor Inc, which develops products to help prevent athletic injuries, is a helmet that inflates for gentle removal in the event of a crash.

Shock Doctor, based in Plymouth, previously developed mouth guards that not only help protect teeth but also help prevent injuries to the head and neck.  For the latest product, Shock Doctor worked with the Bell Racing Co, which became the first helmet manufacturer to provide racers with a factory-installed Shock Doctor Eject helmet removal system.

Eject helmet allows for emergency removal of a helmet, helping prevent a possible increase in neck and spine injuries to a racer.  Shock Doctor manufactures the small Eject plastic bladder and tube system that fits into a special pad on top of selected Bell Racing helmets.  A separate portable air-inflation device inflates the bladder, pushing the helmet away from the rider's head for a safer alternative to pulling the helmet off from outside, which, even with the head and neck stabilized, can increase the possibility of damaging head and neck movement.  The unobtrusive insert does not compromise helmet fit or performance, according to Shock Doctor.

The Eject technology was created in 1985 by a man involved in a motorcycle accident in July 2007.  Shock Doctor acquired a worldwide permanent license and royalty agreement for the patents and technology.  It renamed the product Eject and consolidated its manufacture in Illinois.

Eject helmet removal already is used by drivers and riders in major racing segments and is required in Indy Cars, American MotorCross and SuperCross.  With consistent production and promotion in place, Shock Doctor is working with major racing leagues to mandate the use of the system for all drivers and riders.