Zorro1, Canagirl,
We had a conversation about differing Pain Scales here:
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/thread216281.html
They vary wildly, and you simply need to ensure you are referring to the same Scale as those you are talking to. Research the Scales, find one that best describes your pain levels and take them with you to appointments.
What is the point of stating you are at an 8 when the person you are talking to is hearing 5?
Dave.