Measuring Pain. Visual Analog Scale Versus Numeric Pain Scale: What is the Difference?

J Chiropr Med. 2005 Winter;4(1):43-4. doi: 10.1016/S0899-3467(07)60112-8.

Abstract

Outcome measures are helpful in demonstrating patient response to care and therefore an important part of providing best care for our patients. Using paper scoring systems is one way that doctors of chiropractic can document patient progress. This update provides a brief review of the characteristics and applications of the visual analog scale (VAS) and numeric pain scale (NPS).