Development and Validation of the Modified Motion Sensitivity Test

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to develop and validate an outcome measure for individuals with motion-provoked dizziness.

Study design: Methodological.

Setting: Academic outpatient vestibular and dizziness clinic.

Patients/subjects: Adults with and without motion-provoked dizziness.

Main outcome measures: Scores from the modified Motion Sensitivity Test (mMST) were compared between those with motion-provoked dizziness and controls without complaints of dizziness to evaluate the validity of the mMST. Intrarater and interrater reliability of the total Motion Sensitivity Quotient scores were assessed. Baseline and discharge total Motion Sensitivity Quotient scores were collected in a group of patients to determine the sensitivity of the mMST to measure change in motion-provoked dizziness after vestibular rehabilitation.

Results: A 10-item motion sensitivity test was developed and demonstrated discriminant validity to differentiate patients with motion-provoked dizziness and control subjects without dizziness and demonstrated construct validity compared with the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (r = 0.64, p < 0.001). Internal validity of the mMST was excellent (Cronbach α = 0.95). The mMST demonstrated excellent reliability between raters (intraclass correlation coefficient = 1.00) and test sessions (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.95).

Conclusions: The results indicated that the mMST can be used reliably in clinical practice to develop exercise programs for patients with motion-provoked dizziness and to provide evidence of intervention efficacy. mMST is a valid, reliable measure to use in the clinic for patients with motion-provoked dizziness.