Patients' Experiences of Digital Health Interventions for the Self-Management of Chronic Pain: Systematic Review and Thematic Synthesis

Background: Research regarding the effectiveness of digital health interventions (DHIs) for people living with chronic pain is widely documented, although it is often measured against changes in clinical outcomes. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the full impact of DHIs, it is vital to understand the experience of individuals who are using them. An exploration of qualitative data regarding the experience of people living with chronic pain engaging with DHIs could provide a more in-depth account of how individuals interact and engage with such tools, uncovering the overall impact DHIs can have on the lives of people living with chronic pain. Objective: This qualitative systematic review and thematic synthesis aimed to appraise and synthesize relevant qualitative evidence on patients' experiences of engaging with DHIs for the self-management of chronic pain symptoms. Methods: A systematic literature search of qualitative and mixed methods studies published between 2013 and 2023 was conducted across 6databases: MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus. Eligiblestudies included adult patients aged >= 18 years with a chronic pain diagnosis (ie, >12 weeks) reporting on the experience of engaging in a DHI for the self-management of chronic pain. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program checklist for qualitative research was used to appraise each study. Following a 3-step inductive thematic synthesis approach, the researcher performed line-by-line coding of each eligible article to identify descriptive themes. Through iterative evaluation of the descriptive themes, analytical themes that facilitated a deeper understanding of the data were derived. Results: In total, 37 qualitative and mixed methods studies were included in the review. Thematic synthesis revealed three overarching themes encompassing five subthemes: (1) personal growth, with 2 subthemes (gaining new insights and renewed mindset); (2) active involvement, with 3 subthemes(motivation, improved access, and health caredecision-making); and (3) connectedness and support. Conclusions: A positive experience with DHIs among people living with chronic pain is achieved through an improved understanding of their condition, greater self-awareness of how symptoms impact their lives, and an increase in motivation to play an active role in their health care. DHIs promote the confidence and independence of people living with chronic pain, as well as facilitate a sense of ongoing support between routine appointments. However, DHIs may disempower people living with chronic pain by placing too much focus on their pain and should be used as an adjunct to existing care as opposed to replacing in-person appointments. To appropriately meet the needs of people living with chronic pain, the content and features of DHIs should be personalized. Development of future DHIs should use a co-design approach involving key stakeholders to ensure the needs of people living with chronic pain are met. Trial Registration: PROSPERO CRD42023445100; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42023445100 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): RR2-10.2196/52469