Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances in Chronic Pain Patients - Relation to Physical Activity Level and Opioid Use

Pain is one of the most common causes of healthcare contact and long-term sick leave, with negative consequences on physical and mental health. Poor sleep is common in chronic pain patients. Epidemiological studies indicate that 5-7% of patients with chronic pain are treated regularly with strong opioids. Negative side effects of pain modulating drugs on sleep quality have been reported, which may have negative influence on overall disease management in chronic pain patients. However, to date there are conflicting results regarding the effects of opioids on sleep, since the pain relieving effect of opioids seem to affect sleep positively. There is data suggesting that physical activity has positive effects on both pain perception and sleep quality (and duration). The aim of the study is to explore insomnia and characteristics of sleep in patients with chronic pain and the relationship with physical activity level and opioid use.

One hundred participants with planned follow-up (decision according to clinical routine) at the Pain Centre will be consecutively recruited. After signed informed consent, the participants will wear two accelerometers during one week, one for recording sleep and one for recording physical activity. The participants will be asked to fill out a sleep and pain diary during the same week. Furthermore, the participants will fill out questionnaires regarding sleep, life style, mental fatigue and self-efficacy. All study participant are included in the Swedish Quality Registry for Pain Rehabilitation (SQRP). Data from the SQRP will be used regarding patient health characteristics, pain and pain associated symptoms, health related quality of life, sleep and self-reported physical activity level. Data regarding co-morbidity, drug use, pharmacological treatment and other interventions at the Pain Center will be collected from the patient charts. In addition, the participants blood pressure and neck circumference will be measured. Blood samples will be analysed for biomarkers associated with pain and sleep disturbance.