How is a pain scale used

A pain scale is a tool to help you describe your pain. A pain scale often uses pictures, numbers, or words. It can help you explain to your health care provider:

• What your pain feels like, such as dull, achy, throbbing, or sharp.
• Where pain is located in your body.
• How often you have pain.

Pain scales range from simple to complex. Which pain scale your health care provider uses depends on your condition. Some pain scales only measure pain intensity. These can be useful if the cause of your pain is known. Other pain scales measure more factors, including if you are able to do your usual activities and how the pain is affecting your mood. These scales are useful if you have long-term (chronic) pain.

How is a pain scale used?

A pain scale may be used in your health care provider’s office or in the hospital. Pain scales for adults are usually in the form of a survey. Your health care provider will ask you the questions on the pain scale or have you fill out a form.

Your health care provider may also give you a pain scale to use at home. If you have chronic pain, you may use a pain scale for several weeks or months. Keeping a record of your pain symptoms helps your health care provider see how your pain changes over time. Your health care provider can use a pain scale rating to guide your treatment plan.

Why is it important to communicate about pain?

Being in pain can make you feel unwell and have negative feelings. It can interfere with your daily activities, such as work, school, hobbies, or relationships. Pain can be a sign you have a condition that needs to be treated. A pain scale can help you describe your pain so your health care provider has a better idea of what you are feeling and how to treat your condition.

What are some questions to ask my health care provider?

• How accurate are the results of this pain scale?
• How often should I use a pain scale?
• What is causing my pain?
• How long will I need treatment?
• What are the risks of treatment with medicines?
• What other treatments can help?
• What if my pain does not go away with treatment?
• Should I keep a record of pain symptoms or pain scale results at home?