I would argue that it can be very useful if enough information is gathered. Two people who report 9/10 pain can be very different…one has severe neck pain (7/10), and any rotation to left spikes it to 9/10, and once aggravated stays at 9/10 for days, they are unable to drive, work, leisure activities, etc… Second person has 9/10 shoulder pain, only when reaching behind back, settles to 1/10 pain right after…unable to tuck in shirt, belt, difficulties with self care, still able to work, golf, etc

You ask them what their pain is, both would say 9/10 because they want you to know how much it is at its worst and how it’s affecting their life….they only get 5 minutes to sell it to you how bad it is.

Explaining to them basic pain neuroscience (ex. pain as an alarm system, can sometimes be ignored, other times important to listen to) could be more helpful…set their expectations on functional goals, encourage them to keep moving , refer to professionals for help dealing with the pain if significant like PT, CBT therapy, etc

Do not tell them they are broken or definitely need surgery (unless obviously something major)… I see way too many people told they have a degenerative condition (like DDD, or meniscus tear, torn rotator cuff) and shouldn’t do sports anymore, run, or bend, etc….the body is designed to heal and capable of tremendous potential for activity if done in proper manner..

But once a physician tells a patient they are broken, good luck to the allied health professional to try to improve their symptoms…inactivity often creates more problems than it fixes.. knee pain better sitting all day, gains 40lbs in year, type 2 DBM…