The Relationship Between Subacute Pain, Chronic Pain, and Sleep Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on NHANES (2009–2010)

Abstract

Background: Chronic pain (CP) and subacute pain (SAP) represent major public health challenges, frequently coexisting with sleep disorders (SD). However, the association between pain duration and SD remains poorly characterized. Methods:: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2009–2010). CP, SAP, and SD were assessed through structured interviews conducted by trained personnel using the Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) system. Multivariable logistic regression models were employed to evaluate the relationship between pain duration (CP vs. SAP) and SD, while subgroup analyses explored potential effect modifications by analgesic use and pain intensity. Results: Among 1,109 participants, after adjusting for confounders, individuals with CP exhibited an 85% higher likelihood of SD compared to those with SAP (OR = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.39–2.47, p < 0.001). Pain that worsened during the day (OR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.35–2.80, p < 0.001), persisted at rest (OR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.65–3.43, p < 0.001), failed to be alleviated by exercise (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.20–2.11, p = 0.001), and awakened from (OR = 2.70, 95% CI: 2.06–3.55, p < 0.001) was significantly associated with SD. Subgroup analyses revealed no significant interaction effects of analgesic use or pain intensity on the CP/SAP-SD association (p for interaction > 0.05). Conclusion: These findings suggest that pain (both subacute and chronic) may be an independent risk factor for SD, supporting the need for early intervention for SAP.