Pain is a common symptom after a stroke. It may be due to the effects of the stroke or to pre-existing conditions. ‘Headache, hemiplegic shoulder pain and neuropathic pain including central post-stroke pain are among the major types of pain described and all can occur within the first month following stroke as well as in the longer term.’ (Pain following acute stroke Best Practice Statement (2011), RCP National clinical Guidelines for stroke 2016 pdf))
Learning points
On completion of this module you will:
- Understand the importance of early recognition and appropriate treatment of pain after stroke
- Be able to recognise types of pain specific to stroke
- Be aware of appropriate pain assessment tools
- Have knowledge and understanding of the management of post-stroke pain including possible medication and the roles of the members of the multidisciplinary team
Page last reviewed: 02 Feb 2022
