Turkish Adaptation and Validation of the Scoliosis Misconception Scale in Adolescents With Idiopathic Scoliosis

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a three-dimensional spinal deformity that may be associated with misconceptions regarding its causes, symptoms, progression, and treatment. The Scoliosis Misconception Scale (SMS) was developed to assess patients' understanding and misconceptions about AIS. This observational methodological study aims to cross-culturally adapt the SMS into Turkish and evaluate its psychometric properties in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. A total of 200 patients aged 10-17 years with AIS will be recruited. The Turkish version of the 17-item SMS will be administered, and test-retest reliability will be assessed in a subgroup of 50 participants approximately two weeks after the initial assessment. The study will examine item-level measurement properties, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. Item response theory analyses will also be considered, depending on model assumptions and sample adequacy. The findings are expected to provide evidence regarding the suitability of the Turkish SMS for assessing scoliosis-related misconceptions in Turkish-speaking adolescents.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adolescents aged 10-17 years. * Confirmed diagnosis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). * Radiographically confirmed spinal curvature with a Cobb angle of at least 10°. * Ability to understand and respond to the Turkish version of the questionnaire. * Written informed consent from a parent or legal guardian and age-appropriate assent from the adolescent. Exclusion Criteria: * Non-idiopathic scoliosis, including congenital, neuromuscular, or syndromic scoliosis. * Previous spinal surgery for scoliosis. * Cognitive or communication impairments that prevent reliable questionnaire completion. * Inability to complete the questionnaire independently or with the standardized assistance permitted by the study protocol.