Validity and reproducibility of the translated STarT Back Tool in low back pain and neck pain patients in Dutch primary care

Study design: a prospective cohort

Study population: 200 patients

Procedure: Patients consulting the GP or physiotherapist were included. Questionnaires were taken on baseline, at three days and three months. Questionnaires included the STarT back tool, pain, activity, kinesiophobia, pain catastophising and recovery. GP and physiotherapist recorded treatment.

Results. Included 284 patients, 184 with low back pain and 100 with neck pain. Over 50% of patients are of low risk of chronicity, while over 90% of patients are treated as if they are of moderate risk for chronicity. The STarT Back Tool (SBT) is successfully translated in Dutch for low for neck pain and validated for both low back pain and neck pain. Both are found to have acceptable clinimetrical properties.