Note: Levels are before taking medications prescribed by doctor

1 – Pain Free

2 – Minor Annoyance – dull aches to some parts of the body, no medication needed

3 – Annoying enough to be distracting – OTC drugs are effective to relieve pain

4 – Can be ignored for long periods if really involved in activity – OTC Pain relievers effective for 3-4 hours.

5 - Can be ignored for short periods if really involved in activity – OTC Pain relievers partially effective for 3-4 hours.

6 – Can no longer be ignored – Work becomes extremely difficult. Social functions become strenuous. OTC painkillers no longer effective. Stronger pain killers needed, will reduce pain to a 3-4

7 – Difficulty in concentration and thinking begin – Sleep can be disturbed. Work no longer possible. Any activity becomes stressful. Stronger painkillers (ex. Ultram) reduce level to a 4-5.

8 – Physical activity is severely limited – basic activities become difficult. Normal activities can still be done with much effort. Stronger pain killers do not take care of all pain, pain level remains in 5-6 range after dosage.

9 – Non-functional for all practical purposes – Stronger painkillers inneffective. All physical activity is halted. Crying from pain starts, rational thinking stops. Narcotic painkillers help reduce pain to 6-8 range.

10 – Pain can’t get any worse – Narcotics do not always work. Constant crying and uncontrollable moaning. Suicidal thoughts possible. Talking and basic activities (ex. using bathroom) require great effort.