I had a stroke 3 weeks ago my right side a little weak but is okay but today I am having pain in left arm like an elastic band is on it, is this normal? What can I do about it?

Thank-you for reaching out to us.

Pain is commonly reported following a stroke.  Depending on the type of stroke that you have had and if you have also experienced damage to the muscles of your shoulder your doctor or physiotherapist can try to localise where the pain is coming from. 

Pain in the arm is often associated with sensory changes and weakness.  There are a number of treatment methods that can be used to help manage your pain.  It usually includes a combination of medication and physical therapy techniques such as exercise and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation.

I would strongly encourage you to speak with your local general practitioner about your pain and look at being linked into your local neurological physiotherapist.  Your GP can refer you to see a physiotherapist at your local community rehabilitation center or can discuss private physiotherapy options with you.  I’ve also included the link here to our information site on pain after stroke 

https://enableme.org.au/resources/pain-management

If you have any questions, we are also here for you on Strokeline.  Give us a call on 1800 787 653.

Wishing you well with your recovery.

Carol Pham, Physiotherapist, StrokeConnect