Pain assessment is a process in which pain is evaluated to determine its symptoms, severity and possible causes.

A pain assessment usually consists of two primary parts – questions posed by a physician or other healthcare professional and a physical examination.

During the discussion, a patient may be asked to describe the pain according to its onset date, character, severity, location and factors that improve or worsen the pain. Tools such as a diagram, pain scale or questionnaire may be used to quantify the pain, though pain perception is very subjective and varies from individual to individual.

During a physical exam, the healthcare professional will visually inspect the area of pain. The examiner may assess joints and muscles for strength and range of motion.

There are numerous diagnostic tests that a physician may order to help identify the cause of pain, including x-rays, electrodiagnostics, MRI or sensory testing.

After a pain assessment, healthcare professionals may make a diagnosis and recommend treatments including lifestyle changes, medications, interventions such as physical therapy or manipulation therapy, modalities such as heat therapy or electrical therapy, or surgery.