THE DUFFY/MURRAY PAIN SCALE

Please rate, review, and comment on your pain, but you don't have to like it

September is Pain Awareness Month. 1 in 4 Americans endure pain every day, according to the invaluable U.S. Pain Foundation. I’m a huge fan of this organization, which supports people living with pain and their caregivers. Their mission is to offer “validation, information, support, and above all--hope.” You can learn more at their website, and support them if you’re moved to–I do!

The English word “pain” is rooted in the Latin “poena”, meaning “punishment” and “penalty,” as well as the sensation one feels when hurt. Chronic pain is like serving a life sentence. It’s punishment for a crime you didn’t commit.

The Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating scale is a visual aid to help a patient rate her pain level. It was created for children, but is now used around the world for anyone over 3. While I like the idea, I think it might be more relatable and accurate to use a pain scale with the face of America’s Sweetheart, Bill Murray:

As for myself, I deal with chronic pain by following the Stoic maxim that we can’t control what happens, we can only control how we respond to it. Some days my response is a brisk walk, other days it’s strong medication, and sometimes it’s a long lie-down. I know that a lot of people I interact with live in chronic pain, too. I’d be honored if you would share your experiences in the comments.