Integrating Self-Management Resources into Pain Care: A Guide for Healthcare Providers

Chronic pain is complex, persistent, and deeply personal. While clinical care remains central, many patients benefit from ongoing support between appointments. Introducing reliable, free online self-management resources—such as the I-Engage Academy—can help patients feel more supported, confident, and engaged in their pain management journey.

Why Self-Management Resources Matter

Research consistently shows that engaged patients have better health outcomes. For those with chronic pain, this includes improved function, reduced distress, and increased adherence to treatment. When patients have tools to manage their symptoms in daily life, clinical interventions become more effective.

Digital tools and online education platforms are increasingly important, especially as access to multidisciplinary pain care remains limited for many. Platforms like the I-Engage Academy provide practical, evidence-informed content that complements medical care.

Living with chronic pain is a day-to-day challenge, and patients often need support that extends beyond the clinical setting. While in-person treatments and medications play a crucial role, patients benefit immensely when they’re equipped with strategies to help them manage symptoms between appointments.

That’s where online self-management resources can help.

The Value of Online Resources in Chronic Pain Care

Evidence-based digital tools can be a powerful complement to treatment plans. They allow patients to:

• Explore pain education and coping strategies at their own pace
• Access tools when flare-ups or difficult moments arise
• Practice skills such as pacing, goal-setting, relaxation, or movement
• Feel more in control and less alone in managing their health
  

Research shows that people who actively participate in managing their health, sometimes called “activated patients”, experience better physical and emotional outcomes, and are more likely to follow through with care plans (Hibbard & Greene, 2013).

For patients with limited access to multidisciplinary care, or those who want practical, actionable strategies between visits, online resources can be a lifeline.

Three Strategies for Introducing Online Tools to Patients

Many providers are eager to recommend online support but aren’t sure how to bring it up. Below are three approaches that can help:

1. Normalize It

Make it clear that using digital tools is common and encouraged. When patients know it’s a routine part of care, they’re more likely to explore resources without feeling overwhelmed or stigmatized.

“A lot of people living with chronic pain find that having some tools to use between appointments helps them feel more in control. There are great, free resources available online that walk you through practical strategies.”

2. Tailor the Recommendation

Point patients toward specific tools that match their current goals or symptoms. Personalized recommendations build trust and relevance.

“Since you’ve mentioned that your sleep has been off lately, there’s a short online program that explains how sleep and pain interact, and ways to improve both. That could be worth looking into.”

3. Emphasize Small Steps

Reassure patients that they don’t have to use every tool at once. Framing it as an optional support can reduce pressure and increase openness.

“It’s there for when you want it—whether you spend five minutes or five hours on it. Even learning one new idea can make a difference.”

A Trusted Option: The I-Engage Academy

One resource worth exploring is the I-Engage Academy, a free online platform designed to help people with chronic pain develop self-management skills. It offers:

• eLearning courses on CBT strategies, nutrition, sleep, and mental health
  
• Follow-along videos for guided movement and relaxation
  
• A growing blog with accessible, evidence-informed content on pain management topics
  

The I-Engage Academy isn’t a replacement for clinical care—but it can support patients in building confidence, motivation, and practical skills to use alongside treatment.

When patients feel supported both in and outside of appointments, they’re more likely to stay engaged and resilient in the face of chronic pain. Introducing them to digital resources—even briefly—can be a small gesture that makes a lasting impact.

Explore I-Engage Academy resources today!

Reference

Hibbard, J.H., & Greene, J. (2013). What the evidence shows about patient activation: Better health outcomes and care experiences; fewer data on costs. Health Affairs, 32(2), 207–214. https://doi.org/10.1377/hlthaff.2012.1061