The effect of acute pain on executive function.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Executive functions are crucial for daily independent living.
• Chronic pain's impact on executive function is documented, but acute pain effects are less studied.
• Musculoskeletal injuries often cause acute pain, potentially affecting cognitive abilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of acute pain on executive functions in recreationally active individuals.
• To determine if cognitive performance differs between acute pain states and pain-free recovery following musculoskeletal injury.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-four recreationally active participants with acute musculoskeletal injuries were assessed.
• Neuropsychological testing (Digit Span, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Trail Making Test B) was conducted within 72 hours of injury and again when pain-free.
• Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in Digit Span forwards and Trail Making Test B scores when participants were pain-free.
• No significant differences were found in Digit Span backward or Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test scores between pain and pain-free states.
• Results indicate potential deficits in immediate recall and complex attention during acute pain.

Conclusions:

• Acute pain resulting from musculoskeletal injuries may negatively impact executive functions.
• Cognitive changes associated with acute pain warrant clinical consideration for patient management and recovery.