Validation of the Chinese version of the 12-Item multiple sclerosis walking scale in individuals with multiple sclerosis: a psychometric and item response theory analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The 12-item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale (MSWS-12) is widely used to assess patient-perceived walking disability in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Despite its international application, a validated Mandarin version has been lacking. This study aimed to translate and validate the Chinese version of the MSWS-12 and examine its psychometric properties using both classical test theory (CTT) and item response theory (IRT) approaches.

Methods

The MSWS-12 was translated into Chinese following international guidelines, including forward and backward translation, expert panel review, and cognitive debriefing. Cognitive debriefing was conducted with 20 individuals with MS (10 urban, 10 rural; 40% with a high school education or lower), confirming that all ite

SUBMITTER: Zhang H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12625310 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature