Chronic pain and sleep disturbance have a negative influence on each other, forming a harmful cycle. Bridging the gap between academic knowledge and the general public is crucial due to its practical implications. This study aimed to examine the longitudinal trajectories of research on the sleep-pain relationship and the public’s interest in this topic. Results showed that published research increases public interest, while public interest reinforces itself over time. Encouraging collaboration between academia and the general public can help broaden the understanding of the sleep-pain relationship.

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