A feasibility study of pre-sleep audio and visual alpha brain entrainment for people with chronic pain and sleep disturbance.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Chronic pain and sleep disturbance are bi-directionally related. Cortical electrical activity in the alpha frequency band can be enhanced with sensory stimulation via the phenomenon of entrainment, and may reduce pain perception. A smartphone based programme which delivers 10 Hz stimulation through flickering light or binaural beats was developed for use at night, pre-sleep, with the aim of improving night time pain and sleep and thereby subsequent pain and related daytime symptoms. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and give an indication of effect of this programme for individuals with chronic pain and sleep disturbance.

Materials and methods

In a non-controlled feasibility study participants used audio or visual alpha entrainment for 3

SUBMITTER: Halpin SJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9996154 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature