Overview

Sleep is a critical determinant of physiological recovery and pain regulation. Growing evidence suggests that sleep disruption directly heightens central and peripheral pain sensitivity to sensory stimuli (e.g., mechanical pressure, thermal stimuli), serving as a significant risk factor for the onset and persistence of musculoskeletal pain. However, the precise mechanisms through which sleep quality regulates bodily sensory sensitivity and influences the onset, progression, and recovery trajectories of acute musculoskeletal pain in the general public remain insufficiently understood.

This study aims to investigate the relationship between sleep condition, pain sensitivity, and musculoskeletal pain dynamics in healthy adults from the general population, regardless of their physical activity levels. Utilizing a standardized, safe, and fully reversible exercise-induced muscle soreness (EIMS) protocol as an experimental pain model, this project will continuously evaluate participants' quantitative sensory testing (QST) profiles and sleep parameters.

The findings from this study will advance the mechanistic understanding of sleep-mediated pain modulation, providing evidence-based insights to inform future targeted sleep management and pain prevention interventions.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18 to 60 years
• Right hand and foot dominant

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of any chronic musculoskeletal pain or presence of existing pain during recruitment
• Previous major injuries or surgery involving the lower limbs
• Sleep disorders other than insomnia
• Clinically diagnosed psychiatric disorders
• Contraindications to vigorous exercise identified through the physical activity readiness questionnaire (PAR-Q)
• Work night shifts or rotating shift schedules
• Pregnant