Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Translation of the Modified Short QUestionnaire to ASsess Health-Enhancing Physical Activity (mSQUASH) Into Korean for Use in Patients With Axial Spondyloarthritis

Abstract

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to translate and cross-culturally adapt the modified Short QUestionnaire to ASsess Health-enhancing physical activity (mSQUASH) into Korean for use in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). METHODS: The mSQUASH was translated into Korean and subsequently back-translated into English by two independent translators per phase. An expert committee, comprising translators, two patients, and the research team, reviewed and refined the translation to produce a pre-final version. A field test, including cognitive debriefing interviews, was conducted with 30 patients diagnosed with axSpA. Their feedback was used to finalize the Korean version of the mSQUASH. RESULTS: The translation process was smooth, with minor discrepancies resolved through expert consensus. Cognitive debriefing confirmed that the questionnaire items were clear, relevant, and easy to understand and complete. No essential aspects of physical activity were reported as missing. However, participants suggested modifying certain sport examples to better reflect Korean cultural practices. CONCLUSION: The final Korean version of the mSQUASH demonstrated both linguistic accuracy and cultural appropriateness, supporting its suitability for use in clinical practice and research involving Korean patients with axSpA