Comparative Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia in Upper and Lower Limbs: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Healthy Individuals

Differences in Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia at Local and Distal Levels Using Lower and Upper Limb Cycle Ergometer Protocols: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Healthy Participants

This randomized controlled trial with healthy subjects aims to compare exercise-induced hypoalgesia among three groups: one utilizing a lower limb cycle ergometer, another using an upper limb cycle ergometer, and a control group. The exercise protocol involves 30 minutes of aerobic activity at 70-80% of the heart rate reserve. Exercise-induced hypoalgesia will be assessed by measuring pressure pain thresholds in the thigh and elbow. Additionally, a secondary objective is to compare the lower limb and upper limb cycle ergometer groups in terms of their effects on pressure pain thresholds in the thigh and elbow. Thus, the study anticipates observing differences in local and distal hypoalgesia based on the trained region.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Asymptomatic subjects aged between 18 and 64 years.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, neurological, or osteomuscular signs or pathologies.
• History of epilepsy.
• Pregnant
• Pharmacological treatment.
• Participants who present any type of pain on the day of the measurements or who have frequently suffered pain during the previous 12 weeks.