A Pain Diary is used to monitor pain over time, collect data on possible pain triggers and provide information for a healthcare provider to make best treatment decisions. It is often said that you are the most important person in the pain management process. If you are able to self-report, you should provide information for the Pain Diary., However, if you are unable to share information about your pain experience or maintain a Pain Diary this important task is often assumed by your caregiver.
- Why to complete a Pain Diary
- Primary Care Provider (PCP) or Specialist has asked you to track pain
- Provides a written history of pain issues that can be shared with the healthcare provider and can support better treatment decisions
- When to complete a Pain Diary
- On a routine basis to track pain, preferably daily
- For additional acute pain episodes as they occur
- What to track on a Pain Diary
- Date/Time
- Location of Pain
- Intensity of Pain
- Impact of pain on function
- Aggravating factors (what were you doing when pain started/increased?)
- Treatments tried and their effect on pain
- Other problems or side effects
