Somatosensory Profiles in Individuals With Persistent Musculoskeletal Pain and Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Somatosensory Profiles in Individuals With Persistent Musculoskeletal Pain and Inflammatory Bowel Disease

This study evaluates nervous system hypersensitivity in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and experiences of ongoing musculoskeletal (MSK) pain. Previous results and current literature suggest that MSK pain in IBD may be influenced by hypersensitivity of the central nervous system, termed central sensitization. However, specific mechanisms contributing to pain experiences are unknown. Therefore, primary aims are to explore aspects of central sensitization through sensory testing in this population, and to investigate association of psychological and IBD features to sensory profiles. This study hypothesizes that IBD patients with MSK pain will demonstrate altered sensory function, and IBD/psychosocial features will be associated with altered sensory functioning and worse pain experiences.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults (18 years of age or older)
• Clinical diagnosis of IBD or healthy control

Exclusion Criteria: Participants with IBD (with and without MSK pain) will be excluded if they report any of the following:

• pregnancy
• current history of drug or alcohol abuse
• any condition resulting in altered sensation such as: nerve injuries, neurological conditions (e.g. stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease)
• surgery within the last 3 months