Left arm pain and stroke
Searched over 200M research papers
Summary
2 papers analyzed
These studies suggest that left arm pain after a stroke can be due to spasticity, pain, contracture, or complex regional pain syndrome, and treatments like oral steroids may help improve pain and range of motion.
Not a yes or no question
To use the Consensus Meter, try asking a simple yes or no question
Research summarized with Copilot
Beta20 papers analyzed
Left Arm Pain and Stroke: Understanding the Connection
Incidence and Predictors of Arm Impairments Post-Stroke
Spasticity, Pain, and Contracture in the Affected Arm
A significant number of stroke survivors experience profound impairments in their affected arm, including pain, spasticity, and contracture. These impairments can severely impact the ability to perform basic care activities. Research indicates that spasticity occurs in 33% to 78% of stroke patients with arm weakness, shoulder pain affects 22% to 90%, and contracture is present in at least 50% of cases. These impairments can appear as early as one week post-stroke and continue to develop over a period of 3 to 6 months.
Predictors of Arm Impairments
The most frequent predictors of spasticity and contracture include weakness and reduced motor control. Pain is commonly predicted by factors such as reduced sensation, shoulder subluxation, weakness, and the overall severity of the stroke. These predictors highlight the need for early and sustained intervention to manage these impairments effectively.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) in Stroke Patients
CRPS in the Non-Hemiplegic Arm
While CRPS type I typically affects the hemiplegic upper limb in stroke patients, there are cases where it can present in the non-hemiplegic arm. For instance, a 72-year-old female patient developed CRPS in her left arm following an ischemic stroke in the left middle cerebral artery territory. Symptoms included painful range of motion, hyperalgesia, swelling, and dystonic posture. Diagnostic imaging confirmed increased uptake in the affected arm, and treatment with oral steroids significantly improved her condition.
Conclusion
Left arm pain and related impairments are common and significant issues for stroke survivors. Spasticity, pain, and contracture can develop early and persist, necessitating early and ongoing intervention. Additionally, conditions like CRPS can affect even the non-hemiplegic arm, further complicating post-stroke care. Understanding these impairments and their predictors is crucial for developing effective management strategies to improve the quality of life for stroke survivors.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
