The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between central sensitization and resting RMSSD (Root Mean Square of Successive Differences) in individuals exhibiting prolonged sitting behavior, controlling for potential confounding factors such as age, gender, and body mass index; and to evaluate whether participants, grouped according to sitting durations, differed in terms of RMSSD, central sensitization, balance, and executive cognitive function.
A sedentary lifestyle is becoming increasingly prevalent throughout society. Particularly in populations associated with prolonged sitting, while the cause of chronic pain is often attributed to mechanical factors, it is emphasized that central sensitization also plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of chronic pain. Given the multifaceted effects of central sensitization, heart rate variability (HRV)-a marker of balance, executive function, and autonomic function-gains importance. This study examined the relationship between participants' dynamic balance, Root Mean Square of Successive Differences (RMSSD)-one of the measurement parameters related to HRV-cognitive executive function, and central sensitization assessments. The findings are intended to shed light on clinical assessment and ergonomic intervention strategies for desk-based workers.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
45
No intervention
Demiroglu Bilim University
Istanbul, Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)
Demographic Information Collection
Demographic information of the participants was collected using a participant assessment form developed by the research team. The form collected information about age, height, weight, body mass index, gender, education level, and weekly sitting time.
Time frame: Baseline (Single Assessment)
Assessment of Central Sensitization
Central sensitivity was assessed using the Central Sensitivity Inventory. The scale ranges from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating more severe symptoms.
Time frame: Baseline (Single Assessment)
Assessment of Heart Rate Variability
Heart rate variability measurements were recorded at rest for 5 minutes using a Polar H10 device, in accordance with the recommendations of the European Society of Cardiology. The device was secured to the lower sternal notch with a belt. The RMSSD (Root Mean Square of Successive Differences, ms) parameter was used as an indicator of vagal activity.
Time frame: Baseline (Single Assessment)
Assessment of Balance
The Y Balance Test was used in the balance assessment. First, leg length was determined. Participants were asked to reach as far as possible in the anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions with their other foot, while keeping their test foot at the center point. The reach distances were normalized using the formula \[(Best reach distance / Leg length) × 100\], and the composite balance score was calculated by averaging the results from all three directions.
Time frame: Baseline (Single Assessment)
Assessment of cognitive/executive function
The Verbal Fluency Test was used to assess cognitive/executive function. To measure semantic fluency, the category of animals was used, and the individual was asked to name animals for one minute. For phonemic fluency assessment, the letters 'k, a, s' were selected, and the words spoken using these letters were noted. When calculating the number of correct words, 1 point was given for each word produced according to the instructions.
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Time frame: Baseline (Single Assessment)