Psychometric Validation of Persian CBQ-NSCLBP

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a common and persistent musculoskeletal condition that affects a large portion of the population and can lead to long-term disability. It is typically defined as pain in the lower back that lasts for more than 12 weeks and often impacts daily function and quality of life.

In addition to physical symptoms, people with CLBP frequently experience cognitive and behavioral challenges, such as fear-avoidance beliefs, catastrophizing, and difficulty concentrating. These factors can contribute to ongoing disability and interfere with the rehabilitation process.

The Cognitive Behavioral Questionnaire for Nonspecific Chronic Low Back Pain (CBQ-NSCLBP) was developed to assess these cognitive-behavioral aspects in people with nonspecific CLBP. However, it has only been validated in one population and has not yet been adapted for Persian-speaking individuals.

This study aims to translate and culturally adapt the CBQ-NSCLBP into Persian and evaluate its psychometric properties in individuals with nonspecific chronic low back pain

Inclusion criteria

• Age between 18 - 65 years old.
• Experiencing nonspecific low back pain for at least 6 months.
• Have a physician-confirmed diagnosis.
• Be able to read and understand Persian.
• Be willing to participate and provide written informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

• Specific causes of low back pain (e.g., spinal infection, tumor, fracture, inflammatory disease, radiculopathy, or other neurological disorders).
• Severe psychiatric disorders or cognitive impairments interfering with questionnaire comprehension.
• History of surgery for low back pain.
• Abnormal bowel or bladder function.
• Pregnant at the time of participation.
• Not fluent in Persian.