Healthwise

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Pain Rating Scale

Everyone feels pain differently. A pain scale is one way for you to measure your pain so that doctors can help plan how best to manage it. The pain scale helps the doctor keep track of how well your treatment plan is working to reduce your pain and help you do daily tasks.

Most pain scales use numbers from 0 to 10. A score of 0 means no pain, and 10 means the worst pain you have ever felt.

Use the list below to find the number that best describes your pain.

  • 0 = No pain.
  • 1 = Pain is very mild, barely noticeable. Most of the time you don't think about it.
  • 2 = Minor pain. It's annoying. You may have sharp pain now and then.
  • 3 = Noticeable pain. It may distract you, but you can get used to it.
  • 4 = Moderate pain. If you are involved in an activity, you're able to ignore the pain for a while. But it is still distracting.
  • 5 = Moderately strong pain. You can't ignore it for more than a few minutes. But, with effort, you can still work or do some social activities.
  • 6 = Moderately stronger pain. You avoid some of your normal daily activities. You have trouble concentrating.
  • 7 = Strong pain. It keeps you from doing normal activities.
  • 8 = Very strong pain. It's hard to do anything at all.
  • 9 = Pain that is very hard to tolerate. You can't carry on a conversation.
  • 10 = Worst pain possible.

Due to the threat of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus), we are taking precautionary measures to protect our staff and patients. We are implementing a temporary NO VISITOR policy at this time. Only patients or patients and their guardians will be allowed into the office. Please note, this is not to inconvenience anyone! The virus is a very real threat and it is essential that we stay healthy in order to provide needed care for our patients. If you are sick, we ask that you CALL the office to speak with a nurse before you come in. The nurse will provide specific instructions for you. Please DO NOT enter the office if you are sick (upper respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, or flu like symptoms). We are closely monitoring the situation and will update you as circumstances change. Thank you for your understanding!!