Why Assessing Pain Quality Matters
The experience of pain differs between us. Research suggests words to describe the experience of pain might be similar. Experts call these words ‘pain qualities’. An example of a pain quality would be burning or throbbing. This article discusses the importance of pain quality. Topics addressed include common words used by patients, meaningful changes in pain quality, and the relation to sources of pain. A change in pain quality associated with low back pain provides insight into a patients’ pain experience. Following changes in pain quality can help identify improvements. Look beyond pain intensity The ratings of pain magnitude differ between...
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