One in five individuals in the Netherlands experiences chronic pain, making it the most prevalent health condition in the country. Wendy Scholten-Peeters and her team visited the NEMO Science night on Saturday 2/11/'24 to do an experiement on how laughter can influence the pain experience.

Chronic pain has a profound impact on the quality of life and daily functioning, not only for those affected but also for their loved ones. It often leads to limitations in work capacity fatigue and emotional distress. Fortunately, a multidisciplinary approach can support individuals in re-engaging with meaningful activities, incorporating exercise, and reframing thoughts and emotions related to pain, with humor serving as a catalyst.

Humor’s potential to influence pain perception was highlighted during Museum Night at NEMO. Using an algometer, we measured participants’ pressure pain thresholds before and after a stand-up comedy performance, allowing them to experience humor’s impact on pain. Laughter can alleviate pain and enhance overall well-being.

Thanks to Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Pijn Alliantie Nederland, Nemo, and all participants for supporting this activity and raising awareness around pain and pain-influencing factors.