Types of Pain Scales and How They Measure Pain

Pain assessment is a key factor in addressing aches, tenderness, and discomfort. It helps healthcare professionals at St Louis Pain Consultants learn more about certain conditions, such as nerve damage. Various scales have been developed to quantify and assess symptoms. Here are some types of scales and how they are measured in a pain management clinic:

1. Numerical Rating Scale (NRS)

The Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) is a straightforward tool for grading pain on a scale. Patients are asked to circle the number between 0 and 10 or 0 and 20 to determine which fits their discomfort level. Zero represents minor irritation, while the highest indicates the worst pain. The numbers offer valuable meaning and allow the healthcare professional to determine which treatment to offer in a pain management clinic.

2. McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ)

This assessment consists of three measures, including a pain-rating index, the number of words used to describe the discomfort, and present pain intensity based on a 1-5 scale. The index is based on the number of specific words and helps explain the sensory aspects, management effectiveness, and determine the type of evaluation. Rating from this questionnaire assesses the pain quality, assisting patients to choose words that most accurately represent their discomfort. 

3. Advanced Diagnostic Tools

If patients struggle to define their pain, we can help determine the cause based on symptoms. A doctor may diagnose peripheral neuropathy by performing a medical history and physical exam. They’ll test reflexes, muscle strength, and tone in the impacted areas. Sensation and balance will also be tested. A doctor might also use Electrodiagnostic testing (EDx), which includes Nerve Conduction studies (NCS). This diagnostic tool determines the electrical activity in nerves and muscles.

Other tools, such as X-rays, MRI/CT scans, or diagnostic injections, may help find the root cause of pain. Whether it’s treatments for specific joints or nerve damage, we have facet injections or peripheral nerve stimulation to alleviate the discomfort. At St Louis Pain Consultants, we also offer spinal cord stimulation to treat nerve damage in the back, arms, or legs.

Treatments in a Pain Management Clinic

There may be various causes of pain, such as annular tears, degenerative disc disease, or joint issues. While X-rays, MRIs, or discography can discover root causes, our treatments help alleviate chronic aches. Our SI-Bone iFuse Torque implants offer relief to stabilize the sacroiliac joint. It helps improve function and quality of life for individuals with certain joint dysfunction conditions.

Our Facet injections target specific joints that are causing pain. This may originate from arthritis or inflammation. A fluoroscope machine can be used to make sure the medication is delivered to the appropriate area. We also offer peripheral nerve stimulation, epidural steroid injections, and more. For patients struggling with joint degenerative conditions, nerve damage, spinal issues, or injury, our team offers treatments for pain relief.

Use St. Louis Consultants For Pain Relief

At St Louis Pain Consultants, we conduct assessments to assist with pain management strategies. Our healthcare professionals will determine the root cause and begin designing personal treatment plans. Whether it’s nerve damage or muscle tears, our advanced diagnostic tools can help find and alleviate pain. Contact our office today to make an appointment to determine the cause of any chronic discomfort.