SIGNATURE WORK
CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION 2024

In this study, I aimed to investigate the relationship between autonomic responses and subjective pain experiences during a cold pressor test. Through a secondary analysis of collected data, I primarily examined Heart Rate Variability (HRV) metrics, subjective pain ratings, and the relationship between them when experiencing cold-induced pain. My findings demonstrated no significant demographic differences in subjective pain experiences across various racial and gender groups. Moreover, HRV metrics exhibited fluctuations across the three phases, but these variations did not reach statistical significance. Findings revealed only weak correlations between HRV metrics (Low Frequency Power, High Frequency Power, and LF/HF Ratio) and subjective pain ratings, advocating for expanded future investigations employing larger, more diverse samples and longitudinal frameworks to further examine the association between autonomic functions and pain perception. This research added to the growing literature on the autonomic responses to pain and suggests directions for future studies aimed at enhancing pain management strategies through a deeper understanding of the HRV-pain relationship.