Interactions Between Pain And Movement

Musculoskeletal pain and movement have a complex bi-directional relationship. While on one hand both acute and chronic pain can influence movement, movement is also used to manage both acute and chronic pain. Several historical models suggest alterations in muscle activation resulting from pain, (e.g., vicious circle theory, inhibition, or the pain adaptation model). Despite the both positive and negative links between pain and movement, our understanding of the many intricacies of the underlying relationships between these constructs remain unclear.

The goal of this Research Topic is to bring together a collection of papers that individually and collectively investigate aspects of the relationships between pain and movement. As movement- based interventions (e.g., exercise) are often a first-line treatment for musculoskeletal pain, a clearer understanding of the interactions between pain and movement are of value. For example, pain may adversely affect function through volitional avoidance and potentially either muscle inhibition or muscle spasm. Further physical activity may evoke pain (i.e.,movement- evoked pain) or analgesia (i.e., exercise-induced hypoalgesia). Greater insights on these interactions will aide in the development of improved targeted rehabilitation for chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions.

We are seeking manuscripts involving novel basic science, translational, observational, or clinical research to address topics broadly relevant to musculoskeletal pain and movement; systematic reviews and summary commentaries are also welcome.