Pain |
Musculoskeletal pain
"Musculoskeletal pain is not uncommon in people with stroke. Many patients have pre-existing osteoarthritis or other painful arthritic conditions. Immobility and abnormal posture can cause pain. The most important specific musculoskeletal pain problem after stroke is shoulder pain."
(ISWP, 2012, p96)
- Musculoskeletal pain should be assessed as physiotherapy, posture, positioning, moving and handling techniques can all help to reduce pain
- Usual painkillers (paracetamol or codeine) or anti-inflammatory drugs (diclofenac or ibuprofen) can also help to reduce musculoskeletal pain
- Referral to the patient's own doctor may need to be considered; they may refer onwards to a pain clinic