I have always felt like that 1-10 pain scale was too subjective and I never really knew if I was accurately rating my pain. I came across this scale and it helped clarify things for me, so thought I would share it. I wasn't able to find the original in order to upload it, but here is the content:
10 Unable to Move-I am in bed and can't move due to my pain. I need someone to take me to the ER to get help for my pain.
9 Severe-My pain is all that I can think about. I can barely talk or move because of the pain.
8 Intense-My pain is so severe that it is hard to think of anything else. Talking and listening are difficult.
7 Unmanageable-I am in pain all the time. It keeps me from doing most activities.
6 Distressing-I think about my pain all of the time. I give up many activities because of my pain.
5 Distracting-I think about my pain most of the time. I cannot do some of the activities I need to do each day because of the pain.
4 Moderate-I am constantly aware of my pain but I can continue most activities.
3 Uncomfortable-My pain bothers me but I can ignore it most of the time.
2 Mild-I have a low level of pain. I am aware of my pain only when I pay attention to it.
1 Minimal-My pain is hardly noticeable.
0 No Pain-I have no pain.