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Effect of laughter therapy on chronic head and neck pain
Joseph R Cohen1, Ann Eshenaur Spolarich1, R Curtis Bay2
1Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, AZ, USA.
Objective:
This study investigated the effects of laughter on chronic head and neck pain.
Methods:
Subjects with chronic head and neck pain of ≥ six months duration occurring at least four days per week participated in this pilot cohort study. Differences in self-reported pain were assessed at baseline, Day 7, Day 14, Day 21 and Day 28 using the Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ), Present Pain Intensity (PPI), and Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Self-reported daily compliance with using the LaughMD™ app for laughter therapy was assessed. A generalized estimating equations approach was used to compare pain scores across study timepoints.
Results:
Thirty-five subjects completed the protocol. Pain scores showed a statistically significant reduction over time. Most [71.4% (n=25)] were compliant with app use.
Conclusion:
Using laughter therapy via an app may be an effective adjunct for managing chronic head and neck pain which are frequent symptoms of orofacial pain.
