An examination of the psychometric structure of the Multidimensional Pain Inventory in temporomandibular disorder patients: a confirmatory factor analysis

Yolanda Andreu,Yolanda Jiménez,Juan Pascual,Maria J Galdon,Maite Ferrando,Rafael Poveda,Dennis C Turk,Estrella Durá

doi:10.1186/1746-160x-2-48

Abstract

BackgroundThis paper seeks to analyse the psychometric and structural properties of the Multidimensional Pain Inventory (MPI) in a sample of temporomandibular disorder patients.MethodsThe internal consistency of the scales was obtained. Confirmatory Factor Analysis was carried out to test the MPI structure section by section in a sample of 114 temporomandibular disorder patients.ResultsNearly all scales obtained good reliability indexes. The original structure could not be totally confirmed. However, with a few adjustments we obtained a satisfactory structural model of the MPI which was slightly different from the original: certain items and the Self control scale were eliminated; in two cases, two original scales were grouped in one factor, Solicitous and Distracting responses on the one hand, and Social activities and Away from home activities, on the other.ConclusionThe MPI has been demonstrated to be a reliable tool for the assessment of pain in temporomandibular disorder patients. Some divergences to be taken into account have been clarified.

Highlights

This paper seeks to analyse the psychometric and structural properties of the Multidimensional Pain Inventory (MPI) in a sample of temporomandibular disorder patients
The complexity of chronic pain has led a number of authors to suggest that adequate treatment for chronic pain sufferers will depend on a better understanding of the pain sufferer and a comprehensive assessment of all relevant factors
Sample and Procedure The initial sample consisted of 125 patients suffering from Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) who were referred to the Stomatology Service at the General Hospital of Valencia

Summary

Introduction

This paper seeks to analyse the psychometric and structural properties of the Multidimensional Pain Inventory (MPI) in a sample of temporomandibular disorder patients. The complexity of chronic pain has led a number of authors to suggest that adequate treatment for chronic pain sufferers will depend on a better understanding of the pain sufferer and a comprehensive assessment of all relevant factors. Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) consist of a group of musculoskeletal problems affecting the temporomandibular joint and associated structures. These disorders represent a significant problem within the field of oral medicine, and are prevalent enough to constitute a public (page number not for citation purposes). The aetiology of the disorder is highly controversial; rigorous studies need to be carried out using reliable and valid instruments of pain assessment to have a better understanding of the concrete mechanisms found at the base of TMD

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