Development and evaluation of the feeling better online pain management programme: feasibility and effectiveness

Abstract

Information and communication technologies (ICT) may be used to meet the pain-management needs of pediatric chronic pain patients. Background: Using integrated social-cognitive theory and intervention-mapping models, this research aims to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of an online version of the Feeling Better pain management programme for young children with chronic pain and their care-givers (McManus & McGuire, 2010). Methods: A mixed-methods sequential design is used. Phase I involves a participatory study asking approximately 15 parent-child dyads their opinion of web and app-based programmes. A Pilot RCT design will then be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the programme for this population. This is the first integrated web-and app-based programme specifically designed to address the needs of young children with chronic pain and their caregivers. Expected results: Phase I is expected to provide greater insight into the support needs of this population and the potential acceptability of technology-based treatment programmes. Current stage of work: Phase I research and prototype development is ongoing. Discussion: Findings will have practical implications for the development and use of technology to support behaviour change interventions.