The purpose of the pain scale is to provide a standardized means of measuring pain intensity and severity. We have developed some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to help makes this a meaningful part of your next visit. There are several types of pain questionnaires that clinics use which are slightly different in content, the number of questions and the actual scale used. If you say 'yes' the next question is likely 'please rate your pain on a 0 to 10 scale.' This can be confusing to you as a patient and you might be wondering, 'how do I put a number on my pain?' 'What is my provider really asking?' Nearly every medical appointment you go to these days will ask if you are experience pain.