Abstract
The Multisensory Amplification Scale (MSAS) as a Screening Tool for Adolescents with and without Chronic Pain: A Validation Study
The journal of pain, Vol.41(Supplement), 106038
03/2026
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2025.106038
Abstract
Multisensory sensitivity (MSS) is associated with heightened pain vulnerability and altered central processing. While the Multisensory Sensitivity Assessment Scale (MSAS) is validated in adults, similar screening tools for adolescents remain limited. This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the MSAS in adolescents and explored its relationship to pain metrics. 256 adolescents (ages 13-19) completed the MSAS of the 265 who initiated the surveys (96.6%). Internal consistency, item performance, and convergent validity with AASP subscales were assessed for the original 12-item MSAS and two short forms (6- and 7-item). Construct validity was examined via associations with pain status, chronic pain, and number of pain regions. Internal consistency was high (α = 0.83), and items showed good variability. Convergent validity was strong across MSAS versions. MSAS scores differed by gender (p < 0.001), highest among non-binary participants, followed by females, lastly males. MSAS scores were higher in those reporting current pain (p = 0.005), though significance attenuated after gender adjustment (p = 0.05), and in those with chronic pain compared to no pain (p < 0.001), which remained significant after adjustment (p = 0.04). Further, MSAS increased with number of pain regions (p < 0.0001). The MSAS demonstrates strong reliability, validity, and feasibility in adolescents. Its sensitivity to pain burden and demographic influences supports its potential as a screening and monitoring tool in adolescent pain populations, potentially aiding early identification and personalized care, using either the original 12-item or efficient short forms for rapid clinical screening.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- The Multisensory Amplification Scale (MSAS) as a Screening Tool for Adolescents with and without Chronic Pain: A Validation Study
- Creators
- Anureet WaliaCrystal MarkfortMegan SillsLaura Frey Law
- Resource Type
- Abstract
- Publication Details
- The journal of pain, Vol.41(Supplement), 106038
- DOI
- 10.1016/j.jpain.2025.106038
- ISSN
- 1526-5900
- eISSN
- 1528-8447
- Publisher
- Elsevier
- Language
- English
- Date published
- 03/2026
- Academic Unit
- Psychiatry; Stead Family Department of Pediatrics; Nursing; Anesthesia; Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science
- Record Identifier
- 9985149568102771
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