Italian Version of the Back Beliefs Questionnaire Validated for Clinical Use
We’re delighted to share that due to continued adoption of the Back Beliefs Questionnaire (BBQ) the Italian translation has now been validated for clinical use, marking a significant step forward in culturally responsive care for individuals with lower back trouble (LBT).
The BBQ is a concise, 9-item Patient-Reported Outcome Measure (PROM) designed to assess individuals’ beliefs about the perceived consequences of LBT. These beliefs, particularly negative or self-limiting ones, can significantly influence recovery, disability, and time away from work. By identifying and addressing misconceptions such as “work worsens back trouble” or “bed rest is beneficial,” the BBQ supports more effective interventions and improved outcomes.
Originally developed at the University of Huddersfield by Dr Tara Symonds and Professor Kim Burton OBE, the BBQ was designed to highlight the psychosocial factors that contribute to prolonged recovery and absenteeism. The measure was rigorously tested for reliability and validity, including principal component analysis and test-retest studies across diverse occupational groups. Copyright for the BBQ is held by the University of Huddersfield (© 1996), and all rights are reserved. InSpired Health Outcomes manages the BBQ on behalf of the University, supporting its global use and adaptation.
The newly validated Italian version, recently published in Disability and Rehabilitation, underwent a robust cross-cultural translation and psychometric evaluation led by Matteo Cioeta and colleagues at the IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna. The study confirms that the Italian BBQ is both reliable and valid for use in Italian-speaking clinical populations, filling a critical gap where no prior Italian-language instrument existed to assess beliefs about back trouble.
The availability of this Italian translation of the BBQ further enhances the global reach of the instrument and supports clinicians and researchers in delivering culturally appropriate care. This Italian BBQ is now positioned as a valuable resource for musculoskeletal health professionals working with Italian-speaking patients.
The Italian BBQ is available (under licence) form InSpired Health Outcomes.
📖 Read the full article here - Cioeta, M., Meroni, R., Pellicciari, L., Fagnani, L., Rossi, F., & Marelli, M. (2025). Cross-cultural translation and psychometric properties of the Italian version of the Back Beliefs Questionnaire (BBQ) in patients with low back pain. Disability and Rehabilitation, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2025.2570851
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