Short-term variability of chronic musculoskeletal pain

BACKGROUND Chronic musculoskeletal (MSK) pain can be characterized by its temporal variability and evolution, affecting both pain management and treatment outcomes. While pain variability is traditionally studied over long timescales (e.g. days or weeks), few studies have explored short-term fluctuations (e.g. minutes to seconds) and their clinical relevance. This study investigated the short-term variability of chronic musculoskeletal pain across consecutive days, examining whether these fluctuations are stable, exhibit consistent temporal patterns, and relate to clinical severity. We also explored whether individuals with chronic MSK pain could predict their pain intensity on the following day, suggesting an ability to learn about their pain’s levels.

METHODS Eighty-one participants with chronic MSK pain to the back, neck, leg or arm rated their pain continuously over two days, using a smartphone-based app.

FINDINGS Results indicated that pain ratings were stable and exhibited consistent temporal patterns across days, with a temporally correlated structure. High mean pain levels were associated with lower variability, possibly reflecting a stabilized pain state. Short-term pain variability negatively correlated with clinical severity, indicating that greater variability is linked to milder pain.

IMPLICATIONS These findings highlight the importance of short-term variability as a distinct and clinically relevant feature of chronic MSK pain, with implications for personalized pain management strategies.