Abstract

A brief Review of Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain Assessment Scale

Author(s): Susant Kumar

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that often results in debilitating pain for those afflicted. Accurate pain assessment is crucial for effective management and treatment of RA patients. This review aims to provide a concise overview of the various pain assessment scales and tools utilized in the evaluation of pain among RA patients. These scales encompass both self-report and clinical assessment tools, each with its unique strengths and limitations. The assessment scales discussed in this review include the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), the Disease Activity Score (DAS), the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), and the Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain Assessment Scale (RAPAS). Special attention is given to the RAPAS, a relatively newer instrument designed to comprehensively evaluate pain in RA patients by incorporating both selfreport and physician assessment components. Understanding the nuances of these pain assessment tools is essential for healthcare providers in optimizing pain management strategies and improving the quality of life for individuals living with RA. This review provides a valuable resource for clinicians and researchers seeking to enhance their understanding of RA pain assessment methodologies.