Contents and delivery methods of pain neuroscience education in pediatrics: A scoping review

Background

Pain is prevalent among children and adolescents. The development and implementation of Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) strategies tailored to this population remains overlooked in contrast to the adult population.

Objective

This study sought to identify the content, delivery methods, and dosage of PNE for children and adolescents available in the literature.

Method

We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, and clinical trial registration databases. Inclusion criteria consisted of studies that involved children submitted to a PNE program in community, school, clinics, hospitals or child development centers. We considered studies that included children with and without pain who received PNE strategies associated or not with self-motivational interventions. Studies focusing on psychological interventions were excluded. We extracted data on authors, publication year, country, sample characteristics, health condition, PNE content, study design, context, outcomes, duration, follow-up, main results, dropout, and adverse effects. Data extracted were qualitatively organized.

Results

A total of 805 studies were initially reviewed. The final sample comprised 17 studies. Common PNE topics included pain neurophysiology, biopsychosocial influences, pain concepts, self-management, and coping strategies. Delivery methods ranged from slideshows and videos to booklets, with sessions lasting 8–60 min. Schools were the most common setting for these interventions.

Conclusion

Our review demonstrates the diversity in PNE content, delivery methods, and intervention dosages among the included studies. Most studies occurred in school settings, potentially limiting its generalizability for clinical contexts.