The Sound of Movement and the Brain : What you Hear can Amplify Pain and Fear

Abstract

Christopher Lamb was a finalist in the 2026 UBC Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition. Christopher presented the research titled “The Sound of Movement and the Brain: What You Hear Can Amplify Pain and Fear.” Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a disabling and painful chronic joint condition, and individuals often experience pain and joint “crepitus” with common movements such as squats. However, pain perception in KOA is subject to the brain’s powerful influences. Using sound during movement in KOA may decrease pain, improve strength, reduce fear and activity avoidance, and enhance overall effectiveness of rehabilitation. Christopher Lamb is completing a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences in the Rehabilitation Sciences program under the supervision of Dr. Lara Boyd. #3MT is an academic competition that assists current graduate students with fostering effective presentation and communication skills. Participants have just three minutes to explain the breadth and significance of their research project to a non-specialist audience. For more information or to participate in UBC’s Three Minute Thesis (3MT) visit https://3mt.grad.ubc.ca.