Validity of the Dutch modified painDETECT questionnaire for patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis

Abstract

This study is the first to assess structural and construct validity of the modified PDQ knee/hip by using factor analysis and hypothesis-testing. This questionnaire seems to reflect neuropathic-like pain symptoms experienced by hip/knee OA-patients with adequate validity. The item on pain pattern might not reflect the construct. More than 75% of the predefined hypotheses regarding the modified PDQ and the other questionnaires were met. Only 50% of the hypotheses on PPTs measurements were met, probably due to heterogeneity and limited size of this subsample. Implications for rehabilitation Pain in osteoarthritis (OA) is partly caused by modification of pain transmission in the peripheral and central nervous system, leading to sensitisation. This process seems particularly significant in a subgroup of OA patients. Sensitisation in OA is associated with more disability in daily life, lower quality of life and more widespread pain, as well as poorer outcome of total joint surgery. Screening for sensitisation can help to identify the subgroup of patients who could benefit from multidisciplinary treatment options focussing on desensitisation, cognitive- and behavioural therapy and reducing chronification of widespread pain. Therefore, being particularly important in the field of rehabilitation. The Dutch modified PainDETECT-questionnaire is very useful for rehabilitation professionals as it is one of the first questionnaires specifically validated to assess neuropathic-like symptoms (indicating sensitisation) in patients with knee or hip osteoarthritis.