Effectiveness of Digital Psychological Interventions for Adolescents With Chronic Pain and Comorbid Anxiety and/or Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Ziqian Li, Wanyue Chen, Tongshuang Yuan et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessed digital psychological interventions for adolescents with chronic pain and comorbid anxiety and/or depression. Twelve studies involving 1403 adolescents were included. Compared with control conditions, digital interventions were associated with small improvements in pain (SMD = -0.21, 95% CI: [-0.35, -0.06]) and anxiety (SMD = -0.15, 95% CI: [-0.21, -0.10]). Effects on depressive symptoms were not statistically significant. The review examined internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy, self-management, and internet-based acceptance and commitment therapy.
Key findings
- Across 12 studies involving 1403 adolescents, digital interventions improved pain (SMD = -0.21, 95% CI: [-0.35, -0.06]).
- Digital interventions improved anxiety symptoms (SMD = -0.15, 95% CI: [-0.21, -0.10]).
- Effects of digital psychosocial interventions on depression were not statistically significant.
Why it matters
Chronic pain and emotional symptoms can co-occur during adolescence, and this review suggests digital psychological approaches may address pain and anxiety together. The findings support further consideration of integrated approaches that combine pain management and emotional support, while the lack of a significant depression effect cautions against assuming benefits across all comorbid symptoms.
What to keep in mind
The evidence is based on 12 trials, and the abstract does not report intervention-specific effects or longer-term outcomes.