Assessment of pain

Bone pain is the most frequent symptom of myeloma but the type and intensity varies depending on the location, nature and extent of bone damage. It is important therefore that an assessment is made so that the pain can be managed appropriately and any areas of worsening pain are investigated thoroughly as they may be a sign of impending fracture. Pain scoring tools are available and should be utilised, such as the Brief Pain Inventory, a Visual Analogue Scale and those produced by the British Pain Society.