Core Daily Fields to Track
Include pain location, severity, medications, side effects, mobility limits, and missed activities.
Short daily entries are better than occasional long summaries.
Pain Journal Template for Car Accident Recovery and Claims
A structured pain journal helps providers understand progression and gives you a factual record of daily impact.
Key Points
- Log symptoms, triggers, sleep quality, and activity limits daily.
- Use consistent 0-10 pain scales and plain language.
- Align journal entries with treatment visits and provider guidance.
Using the Journal in Care and Claims
Bring your journal to appointments to improve treatment discussions and follow-up decisions.
A factual daily record can support claim narratives without exaggeration.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I keep a pain journal?
Keep it during active recovery and until symptoms stabilize or your provider advises otherwise.
Can digital notes work instead of paper?
Yes. Use whichever format you can update consistently and date clearly.
Should I share my full journal with insurers immediately?
Not always. Consider legal guidance before broad document disclosures.