painDETECT Questionnaire (PDQ): Neuropathic Pain Screening

The painDETECT Questionnaire helps clinicians identify neuropathic pain components in adults. This screening tool distinguishes nerve pain from other chronic conditions using simple questions.

painDETECT Questionnaire (PDQ) PDF assessment form for neuropathic pain screening
PDQ

painDETECT Questionnaire (PDQ)

The painDETECT Questionnaire (PDQ) is a screening tool designed to identify neuropathic components in chronic pain. It helps clinicians distinguish nerve pain from nociceptive issues using patient-reported symptoms and body charts. This reliable instrument simplifies diagnosis and supports better treatment planning.

Category

Diagnostic
Sensory
Physical health

Disease

Assessment
Diagnostics
Clinical Care

Source

(Freynhagen et al., 2006)

Author Name

Freynhagen, R., Baron, R., Gockel, U. & Tölle, T.R. (2006)

What is painDETECT Questionnaire (PDQ)

The painDETECT Questionnaire (PDQ) is a reliable screening tool used to identify neuropathic components in chronic pain patients quickly. This patient friendly self report tool features a body chart for marking pain sites and specifically checks for radiating pain patterns without needing a complex physical exam. Patients rate seven specific sensory symptoms like burning, prickling, or tingling on a six point scale ranging from never to very strongly. It also looks at how pain changes over time to give a clear picture of the underlying pain condition. Clinicians appreciate that it is easy to score out of 38, with results grouping patients into likely, possible, or unlikely neuropathic pain categories. It works exceptionally well for back pain and other chronic issues, helping doctors choose the right treatment plan quickly and effectively in busy clinics.

PDQ Scoring

The painDETECT Questionnaire can be scored using one main approach that sums specific item responses. You'll calculate the final score by adding up responses from seven sensory questions rated zero to five. Then, add two points if pain radiates and adjust based on the pain pattern, which contributes to the final tally. The total score ranges from minus one to thirty eight. Scores of nineteen or higher suggest a likely neuropathic component, while twelve or below indicate it's unlikely. This helps clinicians spot nerve pain quickly.

View scoring form

Advantages

Diagnostic accuracy

Enables precise identification of patient health status.

Treatment planning

Develops personalised strategies based on assessment data.

User-friendly

Simple to understand and complete for patients.

Wide applicability

Serves diverse clinical needs effectively.

5
Minutes
9
Questions

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