The interfaces between vitamin D, sleep and pain

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   Figure 1

   Hypothesis about the beneficial role of vitamin D on sleep and pain. Chronic pain and sleep disorders share a bidirectional relationship, in which vitamin D deficiency may play an important role. The vitamin D supplementation in sleep conditions associated with vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency may bring benefits to the well-being and quality of life of patients. 1,25(OH)₂D stimulates the anti-inflammatory response mediated by type 2 T helper cells (Th2), decreasing pain sensitivity, and thereby, improving sleep quality. Sleep hygiene, in addition to the treatment of sleep disorders, may also lead to a decrease in pain sensitivity by increasing serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and favoring sleep pattern. MSK, musculoskeletal; OSA, obstructive sleep apnea; RLS, restless legs syndrome.

• © 2017 Society for Endocrinology