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FACES Pain Scale

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FACES Pain Scale

Pain scale using facial expressions

This figure has been reproduced with permission from the International Association for the Study of Pain® (IASP®). The figure may not be reproduced for any other purpose without permission.

These faces show how much something can hurt. You can use these faces to help choose a number that shows how much you or your child hurts right now. The face on the left shows no pain. The other faces in turn show more and more pain. The face on the right shows the worst pain you have ever known. For example, if you have a "2" on the scale, your pain may be minor with sharp pain now and then, but it doesn't impact your ability to do things. If you have an "8" on the scale, you may have very strong pain that makes it hard to do anything.

Current as of: July 10, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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