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. 1978 Aug;37(4):378-81.
doi: 10.1136/ard.37.4.378.

Studies with pain rating scales

W W Downie, P A Leatham, V M Rhind, V Wright, J A Branco, J A Anderson

Studies with pain rating scales

W W Downie et al. Ann Rheum Dis. 1978 Aug.

Abstract

Good correlation has been shown between pain scores derived from 4 different rating scales. The correlation was maintained when presentation of the scales was separated by a series of questions and by physical examination. There is good evidence that the 4 scales are measuring the same underlying pain variable as they calibrate well. There is also evidence that an 11-point (0-10) numerical rating scale performs better than both a 4-point simple descriptive scale or a continuous (visual analogue) scale.

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References

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