From the Guidelines
Pain should be measured using standardized tools such as the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), or Verbal Rating Scale (VRS) to quantify subjective experiences and track treatment effectiveness. The most effective methods for measuring and managing pain involve a combination of accurate assessment and tailored interventions. According to the most recent and highest quality study 1, pain assessment tools such as the VAS, NRS, and VRS are recommended for measuring pain intensity.
Key Parameters for Measuring Pain
- Pain intensity: measured using standardized tools such as VAS, NRS, or VRS
- Pain quality: assessed through patient self-report and observation of behavior
- Functional goals: focused on restoring function and improving quality of life
Effective Methods for Managing Pain
- Non-opioid medications: acetaminophen or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen for mild to moderate pain
- Opioids: for moderate to severe pain, starting with lower potency options like tramadol before considering stronger medications like oxycodone or morphine
- Non-pharmacological approaches: physical therapy, heat/cold therapy, massage, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness meditation
- Multimodal approaches: combining medications with non-pharmacological techniques to provide superior relief while minimizing side effects
Regular reassessment is crucial, as pain characteristics may change over time, requiring adjustment of the management strategy. For chronic pain, establishing realistic goals focused on function rather than complete pain elimination is essential, while addressing psychological factors that may amplify pain perception 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Parameters to Measure Pain
The parameters to measure pain include various self-report pain scales and observational pain assessment tools. Some of the commonly used pain scales are:
Effective Methods for Measuring Pain
Effective methods for measuring pain also include the use of devices and techniques that can induce a controlled and measurable pain stimulus, such as:
Limitations of Pain Measurement
The measurement of pain is complex and subjective, and there are limitations to the use of self-report pain scales, including:
- Dependence on patient self-reporting 2, 5
- Potential for bias and inaccuracy 5
- Difficulty in standardizing subjective experience 5
Observational Pain Assessment Tools
Observational pain assessment tools can be used to assess pain in patients who are unable to self-report, including:
Validation of Pain Measures
The validation of pain measures is essential to ensure their accuracy and reliability, and studies have shown that some pain measures have good evidence of validity and reliability, while others require further validation 2, 6, 4