Dual-Facing Digital Health Systems to Support Self-Management of Chronic Pain: Protocol for a Scoping Review
Martin Pursley1, Fiona Muirhead2, Alexandra Mavroeidi3
1Physical Activity and Health/Computer Information Sciences, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Strathclyde, 6 Richmond St, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, United Kingdom, 44 07903314961.
JMIR Research Protocols
|June 3, 2026
Summary
This scoping review examines dual-facing digital health systems (DDHSs) for chronic pain self-management. Findings highlight inconsistent framework use and limited dual-facing integration, guiding future digital intervention development.
Area of Science:
- Digital Health Interventions
- Chronic Pain Management
- Health Informatics
Background:
- Chronic pain affects 1 in 5 adults globally, necessitating effective self-management strategies.
- Digital health systems offer scalable solutions for supported self-management, improving patient quality of life and function.
- Dual-facing digital health systems (DDHSs), engaging both patients and professionals, show potential but are underexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map existing DDHSs for chronic pain self-management.
- To examine frameworks guiding DDHS design, implementation, and evaluation.
- To identify research and practice gaps in DDHS for chronic pain.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review following Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
- Inclusion of peer-reviewed studies from 2010 to present on DDHSs for chronic pain self-management.
- Searches across major databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, APA PsycInfo) with citation tracking.
Main Results:
- 19 studies were included after screening 1377 records.
- The evidence base is heterogeneous, with variations in system features, populations, and outcomes.
- Early findings indicate inconsistent use of theoretical frameworks and limited integration of dual-facing components.
Conclusions:
- This review provides a structured overview of DDHSs for chronic pain self-management.
- Findings will guide the development and implementation of future digital interventions.
- Identified gaps emphasize the need for robust framework application in DDHS design and evaluation.
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