Spline regression

In regression modeling when we include a continuous predictor variable in our model, either as the main exposure of interest or as a confounder, we are making the assumption that the relationship between the predictor variable and the outcome is linear. In other words, a one unit increase in the predictor variable is associated with a fixed difference in the outcome. Thus, we make no distinction between a one unit increase in the predictor variable near the minimum value and a one unit increase in the predictor variable near the maximum value. This assumption of linearity may not always be true, and may lead to an incorrect conclusion about the relationship between the exposure and outcome, or in the case of a confounder that violates the linearity assumption, may lead to residual confounding. Spline regression is one method for testing non-linearity in the predictor variables and for modeling non-linear functions.