You're welcome. Pain is complex and cannot ever be linked to a single cause. Regarding BMI, the research is muddled. A 2020 study by Emerson et al. showed BMI, body fat %, and viceral adiposity were not linked to acute pain sensitivity. However, based on the influnce of viceral adiposity (BMI alone is not the best indicator, as it doesn't differentiate fat mass and fat free mass) on inflammatory markers and insulin sensitivity, it is possible more adipose tissue can incraese the odds of acute pain transitioning to chronic pain. But again, this is just a piece of the puzzle.

Zachary Walston, PT, DPT, OCS
Zachary Walston, PT, DPT, OCS

Written by Zachary Walston, PT, DPT, OCS

A physical therapist helping you understand and apply the latest health research | https://www.tiktok.com/@zachwalstondpt

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