Managing pain after stroke
Understanding pain after stroke
Many stroke survivors have to deal with pain caused by their stroke. Pain can be constant or it can come and go. It will usually be on the side of the body affected by the stroke, though it can impact any part of the body. Pain can be felt if there is real or potential damage to body tissue. It can also be felt if the nerve itself has been damaged.
Pain experienced within the first month after a stroke, as well as longer term, can include headache, hemiplegic shoulder pain and neuropathic pain.
When pain lasts for less than three months it is called ‘acute pain’ and it generally improves with treatment. ‘Chronic pain’ is when pain has lasted for three months or more and often needs different treatment than acute pain.
Pain experts emphasise, even if you can’t make your pain go away, it is almost always possible to reduce pain levels and to improve quality of life.
What can I do about pain?
Find a supportive general practitioner (GP) and tell them about your pain. Many people with chronic pain are reluctant to discuss it with their GP but talking openly about your pain with your doctor means your GP can work with you to find the best solution. My Health Plan (developed by NSW Agency for Clinical Innovation) can assist in talking about chronic pain with your doctor, specialist, psychologist, family member or friend.
Consider multidisciplinary care. Pain is best managed using a team approach that is tailored to the individual. This may include allied health services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy and psychology. GPs can arrange access to allied health services under the Chronic Disease Management Medicare items. If you have private health insurance, check what allied health services are covered. If co-payment is a barrier, services from your local community health service may be an option.
Access a specialist pain clinic. Many people benefit from attending pain management clinics where they learn coping technique to make chronic pain. The clinic provides an environment for receiving treatments to restore your quality of life and levels of activity, even if the pain itself is not completely relieved. Your GP can arrange access to a pain clinic if appropriate.
Seek support. Be honest with trusted family and friends about your experiences. Ask for their help and support and take opportunities to talk about how you’re feeling. It’s common to worry about burdening others with your problems, but most people really do want to help.
- Enableme: see the ‘what helps’ section for resources on pain and join in the conversation in the ‘forum’
Alternative methods. You may gain temporary relief from massage or acupuncture. You should speak to your doctor before trying massage or acupuncture as they may not be suitable. Relaxation techniques, meditation and yoga are other options to consider.
- Emma Gee, stroke survivor, writes in her book ‘Reinventing Emma’ about how she manages her pain and the benefit she finds in engaging in swimming and yoga:
“…if my pain worsens I visualise kicking it out.”
“… I know that moving my body is the only way to manage my pain and refuel my daily motivation…Swimming is my pain medication.”
- Stroke survivor and carer discuss pain and what works for them in this Pain Management Video.
Where can I get more information and support?
Have a look at our Pain after stroke fact sheet.
Visit the NOI group website and consider reading their book ‘Explain Pain’.
The Australian Pain Management Association’s Pain Link telephone helpline is staffed by volunteers who live with chronic pain themselves. Call 1300 340 357. The website also has useful resources and links and a directory to assist in finding a pain clinic near you.
If you would like to discuss your experience of pain or would like further information on any of the resources mentioned above, please contact us on StrokeLine - 1800 787 653, Mon-Fri 9am-5pm AEST
Best wishes,
StrokeLine