The Body on the Line: A 15-Month Continuous Wearable Biometric Case Study of a GWOT Veteran with PTSD and mTBI in a Manufacturing Occupational Environment

Single-subject longitudinal observational case study documenting 466 consecutive days of continuous wearable biometric monitoring (Apple Watch Series 9; HRV, sleep, RHR, noise, steps) in a 100% Permanent and Total service-connected Global War on Terror combat veteran with PTSD, mild traumatic brain injury, and seven additional service-connected diagnoses, working a 12-hour rotating manufacturing shift. Findings include an annual mean HRV approximately 42% below age-matched reference, a within-week autonomic depletion pattern, anticipatory pre-shift activation (57% more REM-to-Awake arousal events on pre-shift nights), and work-day noise exposure exceeding the OSHA permissible limit. Post-employment cessation produced directional autonomic recovery. The study addresses a gap in occupational health research on veteran populations and demonstrates the utility of consumer wearable technology as a longitudinal monitoring tool. Bears on occupational health, trauma physiology, federal contractor compliance, and digital health methodology.