Neuropathic Pain Scale (NPS)
NPS Calculator
How intense is the pain?
How sharp is the pain? (“like a knife”)
How hot is the pain? (“burning”)
How dull is the pain?
How cold is the pain? (“freezing”)
How sensitive is the skin? (“painful to light touch”)
How itchy is the pain?
How unpleasant is the pain?
How deep is the pain?
How much surface pain? (“on the skin”)
NPS Total Score:
0
Quantifies severity of neuropathic pain.
Why Use
Neuropathic pain is experienced quite variably and can be difficult to assess and follow.
When to Use
Known neuropathy patient being followed and evaluated over time.
Formula
Addition of assigned points.
Pearls / Pitfalls
The Neuropathic Pain Scale (NPS) allows for standardized pain assessment in neuropathy patients. Points to keep in mind: The NPS quantifies already-diagnosed neuropathic pain. It is NOT a diagnostic tool to determine if a patient's pain is neuropathic in origin.
Advice
The NPS is a comprehensive and wise method for assessing neuropathy pain and may be particularly useful for assessing response to therapies.
More Information
The higher the score, the worse the neuropathic pain. Consider appropriate analgesia.