The complexities of pain after stroke--a review with a focus on central post-stroke pain

Panminerva Med. 2013 Mar;55(1):1-10.

Abstract

Pain is frequently reported following stroke, but seems to be an underemphasized phenomenon since it can importantly impact rehabilitation and long-term outcomes. Two major forms of pain have to be distinguished in patients with post-stroke pain: central, neuropathic pain, arising from the vascular lesion defined as central post-stroke pain (CPSP) and pain primarily triggered by peripheral mechanisms such as hemiplegic shoulder pain and spasticity-related pain. Headache after stroke is difficult to classify since the pathophysiology is unclear. The suggested underlying mechanisms as well as treatment strategies of post-stroke pain differ according to the origin (peripheral versus central). This article aims at reviewing the pertinent evidence regarding clinical characteristics and mechanisms of post-stroke pain generation with a focus on CPSP. We discuss possible treatment options and highlight current pathophysiological concepts.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Headache / etiology
  • Humans
  • Muscle Spasticity / etiology
  • Neuralgia / etiology
  • Pain / diagnosis
  • Pain / etiology*
  • Pain / physiopathology
  • Pain / prevention & control
  • Pain Management / methods
  • Pain Measurement
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Prognosis
  • Shoulder Pain / etiology
  • Stroke / complications*