Flotation-REST for Chronic Pain, Stress, and Sleep

Daily Assessments of Pain, Stress, and Sleep Following Flotation-REST: A Randomized Crossover Trial for Those With Chronic Pain

This randomized crossover trial aims to examine the effects of Flotation-REST (Reduced, Environmental, Stimulation, Technique/Therapy) compared to laying in a dark room (with reduced environmental stimulation) for those with chronic musculoskeletal pain. This design will allow for comparisons between the two interventions on daily diary assessments of pain, stress, and sleep, both between groups and within individuals.

Chronic pain is a prevalent and significant health problem. Previous research shows that Flotation-REST may be an effective treatment for reducing pain but little is known about the short-term effects of a single session of Flotation-REST on the day-to-day variability of pain, stress, and sleep. Sleep, stress, and pain are all bidirectionally related to each other, and previous research shows that Flotation-REST may positively influence all three of these outcomes. Therefore, the primary aim of this study is to examine changes in pain, stress, and sleep following Flotation-REST. The secondary aim is to investigate whether various subjective experiences during the intervention are associated with changes in pain, stress, and sleep following the interventions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Chronic musculoskeletal pain (e.g., back pain or upper or lower extremity pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia) on more days than not for the past 3 months
• Psychologically healthy
• Adults between the ages of 18-75 years.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous experience in a flotation-REST device.
• Diagnosed with neuropathic pain condition or endorsing more than 4 peripheral neuropathy symptoms.
• Diagnosed with any psychiatric condition (e.g., schizophrenia or bipolar disorder).
• Active suicidality with intent or plan.
• Currently taking SSRI medication.
• History of neurological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, stroke, severe traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia)
• Any skin conditions or open wounds that could cause pain when exposed to saltwater
• Inability to lay comfortably for 60 minutes
• Pregnant
• Started a new sleep or pain medication within the last 6 weeks