The Experience of Post-Stroke Pain and The Impact on Quality of Life: An Integrative Review

Association of post-stroke hemiplegic shoulder pain with sleep quality, mood, and quality of life

BACKGROUND

Hemiplegic Shoulder Pain (HSP) is a prevalent post-stroke complication, characterized by paralysis, spasticity, altered sensation, neuropathic pain, shoulder subluxation, and soft tissue injuries such as rotator cuff tears and bicipital tendonitis. Muscle imbalances, weakness, and altered scapular positioning further contribute to the exacerbation of HSP. These factors lead to poorer functional outcomes, reduced hand function, and difficulties in performing daily activities. HSP is often associated with substantial mental and physical health burdens. The disorder significantly impacts the rehabilitation process, as evidenced by the negative effects it can have on quality of life (QoL), sleep quality, and mental status.This study aimed to determine the relationships between pain intensity, sleep quality, depressive symptoms and QoL in patients with post-stroke HSP.

METHODS

This study was a cross-sectional survey of patients with chronic post-stroke HSP. The study included 164 patients who were referred to physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and neurology clinics for palliative and rehabilitative care. Demographic data, pain intensity (Numeric Pain Rating Scale, NPRS), QoL (SF- 36), sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, PSQI), and depression (Beck Depression Inventory-II, BDI-II) were assessed.

RESULTS

Participants exhibited low QoL, with a mean SF- 36 score of 46.25 ± 4.21. The mean and standard deviation for depression, sleep quality, and pain intensity were 12.375 ± 3.569 (moderate level), 9.901 ± 3.213 (relatively low level), and 4.689 ± 2.547 (moderate level), respectively. The variables of sleep quality, depression, pain intensity, education level, and duration of HSP were found to be significant predictors of QoL (P < 0.05). Individuals experiencing intense and moderate pain had 0.538 and 0.605 times the likelihood of having a favorable QoL, respectively, compared to those with mild pain. Similarly, individuals with intense and moderate depression had 0.461 and 0.551 times the likelihood of achieving a favorable QoL compared to those without depression. Participants with a diploma or university degree (OR: 2.475) were more likely to have a favorable QoL than those who were illiterate. Additionally, individuals who had experienced HSP for more than one year had 0.631 times the likelihood of achieving a favorable QoL compared to those whose HSP duration was less than one year. Regarding functional independence, individuals who were completely dependent and semi-dependent in performing daily activities had 0.391 and 0.462 times the likelihood of having a favorable QoL, respectively, compared to those who were completely independent.

CONCLUSION

Post-stroke HSP patients exhibited significant shoulder pain, depression, and poor sleep quality, leading to reduced QoL. Factors such as duration of HSP, sleep quality, depression, pain intensity, and education level were identified as influential in determining QoL for these patients.

Functional magnetic resonance imaging and diffuse tensor imaging diagnostic values in central post-stroke pain

Purpose

This review aims to emphasize the diagnostic value of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) tractography in detecting and diagnosing central post-stroke pain (CPSP).

Views

CPSP is a debilitating form of chronic neuropathic pain that develops in patients with a history of stroke. CPSP has a wide range of onset and non-specific clinical presentations, making it difficult to detect. Until now, CPSP has been considered a diagnosis of exclusion, often leading to delays in the initiation of the appropriate treatment plan. fMRI and DTI tractography are valuable tools for assessing cerebral metabolic activity and the structural characteristics of the spinothalamic tracts, respectively. By combining these sets of information, physicians can detect CPSP early and implement more effective treatment strategies.

Conclusion

Diagnosing CPSP has been challenging for physicians due to its complex nature. However, fMRI and DTI have the potential in enabling earlier detection of CPSP, giving physicians more time to initiate treatment. This review highlights the capacities of fMRI and DTI in identifying alterations in the spinothalamic pathways associated with CPSP.

Beneficial effects of non-pharmacological interventions for post-stroke pain: A meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Pain is a frequent post-stroke health concern, and several non-pharmacological interventions are commonly employed to manage it. However, few reviews have examined the effectiveness of such interventions, making it difficult to draw conclusions about their usefulness. Furthermore, subgroup analysis based on post-stroke pain level or intervention characteristics is rarely performed. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions and evaluate the significant factors associated with post-stroke pain through subgroup analysis.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Relevant studies were obtained from seven databases, from their commencement up to March 2024, as well as from the gray literature. The PICOS approach was used to evaluate the eligibility criteria of the studies. The RoB-2 tool was used to determine the risk of bias in each randomized trial. Pooled estimations of standardized mean difference and heterogeneity (quantified with I2) were obtained using a random-effects model. The stability of the pooled result was then assessed using the leave-one-out approach. STATA 17.0 was used to run the meta-analysis.

FINDINGS

Non-pharmacological interventions were effective in reducing pain immediately after intervention (pooled SMDs: -0.79; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.06 to -0.53; p < 0.001). The approach involving acupuncture, aquatic therapy, or laser therapy and rehabilitation training was effective for post-stroke hemiplegic shoulder pain. A pooled analysis of non-pharmacological interventions showed that both less than 4 weeks and more than 4 weeks of interventions were effective in alleviating pain in stroke patients.

CONCLUSION

Non-pharmacological approaches appear to be beneficial for reducing post-stroke pain. The outcomes based on the modalities merit further research.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Further studies are needed to determine the effects of different modalities on pain intensity following a stroke. Furthermore, to avoid overestimation of intervention efficacy, future randomized trials should consider blinding approaches to the interventions delivered.

MCC950 as a promising candidate for blocking NLRP3 inflammasome activation: A review of preclinical research and future directions

The NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a key component of the innate immune system that triggers inflammation and pyroptosis and contributes to the development of several diseases. Therefore, blocking the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome has therapeutic potential for the treatment of these diseases. MCC950, a selective small molecule inhibitor, has emerged as a promising candidate for blocking NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Ongoing research is focused on elucidating the specific targets of MCC950 as well as assessfing its metabolism and safety profile. This review discusses the diseases that have been studied in relation to MCC950, with a focus on stroke, Alzheimer's disease, liver injury, atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, and sepsis, using bibliometric analysis. It then summarizes the potential pharmacological targets of MCC950 and discusses its toxicity. Furthermore, it traces the progression from preclinical to clinical research for the treatment of these diseases. Overall, this review provides a solid foundation for the clinical therapeutic potential of MCC950 and offers insights for future research and therapeutic approaches.

Role of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Related Therapeutic Strategies in Central Post-Stroke Pain

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is vital for synaptic plasticity, cell persistence, and neuronal development in peripheral and central nervous systems (CNS). Numerous intracellular signalling pathways involving BDNF are well recognized to affect neurogenesis, synaptic function, cell viability, and cognitive function, which in turn affects pathological and physiological aspects of neurons. Stroke has a significant psycho-socioeconomic impact globally. Central post-stroke pain (CPSP), also known as a type of chronic neuropathic pain, is caused by injury to the CNS following a stroke, specifically damage to the somatosensory system. BDNF regulates a broad range of functions directly or via its biologically active isoforms, regulating multiple signalling pathways through interactions with different types of receptors. BDNF has been shown to play a major role in facilitating neuroplasticity during post-stroke recovery and a pro-nociceptive role in pain development in the nervous system. BDNF-tyrosine kinase receptors B (TrkB) pathway promotes neurite outgrowth, neurogenesis, and the prevention of apoptosis, which helps in stroke recovery. Meanwhile, BDNF overexpression plays a role in CPSP via the activation of purinergic receptors P2X4R and P2X7R. The neuronal hyperexcitability that causes CPSP is linked with BDNF-TrkB interactions, changes in ion channels and inflammatory reactions. This review provides an overview of BDNF synthesis, interactions with certain receptors, and potential functions in regulating signalling pathways associated with stroke and CPSP. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying CPSP, the role of BDNF in CPSP, and the challenges and current treatment strategies targeting BDNF are also discussed.

Health-related quality of life with rivaroxaban plus aspirin vs. aspirin alone in chronic stable cardiovascular disease: Cardiovascular Outcomes for People Using Anticoagulation Strategies (COMPASS) trial

Aims

This study aimed to compare the effects of the combination of rivaroxaban and aspirin with aspirin alone on health-related quality of life in the Cardiovascular Outcomes for People Using Anticoagulation Strategies (COMPASS) trial.

Methods and results

Health-related quality of life assessed using the EQ-5D-3L. The treatment effects on health utility and EQ visual analogue scale (EQ VAS) scores were compared between rivaroxaban plus aspirin and aspirin alone in terms of adjusted mean difference in change from baseline and odds ratio of having deterioration events. Nine thousand forty-nine (98.9%) and 6916 (75.5%) completed the EQ-5D-3L at baseline and at final visit, respectively. Nine thousand twenty-eight (98.9%) and 6887 (76.3%) completed the EQ-5D-3L at baseline and final visit, respectively. Mean (standard deviation) health utility and EQ VAS scores at baseline were 0.871 (0.141) and 76.0 (15.3), respectively, for the rivaroxaban plus aspirin group, compared with 0.873 (0.139) and 75.8 (15.1) for the aspirin group. Adjusted mean difference in change from baseline utility was -0.002 [95% confidence interval (CI), -0.006, 0.002, P = 0.30] between the combination therapy group and the aspirin group. The odds ratio (95% CI) of experiencing deterioration in health utility was 1.01 (95% CI, 0.93, 1.10, P = 0.81) between the two groups. Adjusted mean difference in change from baseline EQ VAS was 0.02 (95% CI, -0.43, 0.47, P = 0.93) between the two groups.

Conclusion

This analysis of the COMPASS trial demonstrated that the quality of life of patients was similar between the rivaroxaban plus aspirin group and the aspirin alone group.

Registration

Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov number (NCT01776424). Trial protocol and statistical analysis plan: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1709118#APPNEJMoa1709118PRO.

Is there a relationship between somatosensory impairment and the perception of pain in stroke survivors? An exploratory study

Pain and somatosensory impairments are commonly reported following stroke. This study investigated the relationship between somatosensory impairments (touch detection, touch discrimination and proprioceptive discrimination) and the reported presence and perception of any bodily pain in stroke survivors. Stroke survivors with somatosensory impairment ( N  = 45) completed the Weinstein Enhanced Sensory Test (WEST), Tactile Discrimination Test, and Wrist Position Sense Test for quantification of somatosensation in both hands and the McGill Pain Questionnaire, visual analog scale and the Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI) for reporting presence and perception of pain. No relationship was observed between somatosensory impairment (affected contralesional hand) of touch detection, discriminative touch or proprioceptive discrimination with the presence or perception of pain. However, a weak to moderate negative relationship between touch detection in the affected hand (WEST) and perception of pain intensity (NPSI) was found, suggesting that stroke survivors with milder somatosensory impairment of touch detection, rather than severe loss, are likely to experience higher pain intensity [rho = -0.35; 95% confidence interval (CI), -0.60 to -0.03; P  = 0.03]. Further, a moderate, negative relationship was found specifically with evoked pain (NPSI) and touch detection in the affected hand (rho = -0.43; 95% CI, -0.72 to -0.02; P  = 0.03). In summary, our findings indicate a weak to moderate, albeit still uncertain, association, which prevents making a definitive conclusion. Nevertheless, our findings contribute to our understanding of the complexities surrounding the experience of pain in survivors of stroke and provide direction for future studies.

The prevalence and factors associated with neck and low back pain in patients with stroke: insights from the CHARLS

BACKGROUND

Although stroke is prevalent among Chinese, individuals with stroke may become more disabling if they have concomitant neck pain (NP) and low back pain (LBP). However, the prevalence and factors associated with post-stroke spinal pain among Chinese remain unknown. The current study used the 2018 cohort data from the China Health and Aged Care Tracking Survey (CHARLS) to determine the prevalence and factors associated with increased post-stroke NP and LBP in China.

METHODS

The CHARLS study was conducted on four cohorts of nationally representative samples of individuals aged 45 years and above from 30 provincial-level administrative units in China. We used data from the 2018 cohort of the CHARLS survey to determine the prevalence and factors associated with NP and LBP in the non-stroke and post-stroke populations. Participants aged 45 years or older who reported to have NP, and/or LBP were identified. The study was statistically analyzed using t-test, and ANOVA analysis of variance. A multiple logistic regression model was used to identify factors significantly associated with NP and/or LBP in the non-stroke and post-stroke populations.

RESULTS

A total of 19,816 individuals participated in the 2018 survey. The final inclusion of 17,802 subjects who met the criteria included 16,197 non-stroke and 885 stroke participants. The prevalence of NP and LBP in non-stroke population was 17.80% (95% CI: 17.21-18.39) and 37.22% (95% CI: 36.47-37.96), respectively. The prevalence of NP and LBP in the target stroke population was 26.44% (95% CI: 23.53-29.35) and 45.42% (95% CI: 42.14-48.71), respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Factors associated with increased post-stroke NP included female, short sleep duration, long lunch break, physical dysfunction, and depression. Factors associated with increased post-stroke LBP included female, comorbidities of two or more chronic diseases, physical dysfunction, and depression.

CONCLUSION

The current study highlighted the high prevalence of post-stroke neck pain (26.44%) and LBP (45.42%) in China. While slightly different associated factors were found to be associated with a higher prevalence of post-stroke NP and LBP, female and individuals with more physical dysfunction or depression were more likely to experience post-stroke spinal pain. Clinicians should pay more attention to vulnerable individuals and provide pain management measures.

Health-Related Quality of Life of Post-Stroke Patients in a Public Hospital

This study aimed to identify the correlation between influencing factors of activities of daily living (ADLs), mental health, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among post-stroke patients who enrolled in a transitional care service in a public hospital. This cross-sectional study involved 67 stroke patients who were enrolled in a transitional care service and visited the outpatient clinic at a public hospital in Seoul between March and December 2022. Their general characteristics, ADLs, mental health, and HRQoL were assessed. The data were analyzed using independent samples t-tests, analysis of variance, and Pearson correlation analysis, and the influencing factors were analyzed using regression analysis. HRQoL showed a statistically significant difference between patients living in different types of arrangements (t = 2.50, p = 0.015), and patients scores on the modified Rankin Scale (t = 7.08, p < 0.001). HRQoL was also significantly correlated with ADLs and mental health in stroke patients (r = -0.59, p < 0.001; r = -0.41, p < 0.001, respectively). Meanwhile, stroke severity (β = -0.30, p = 0.002), living arrangements (β = -0.30, p = 0.009) and ADLs (β = -0.45, p < 0.001) were found to influence HRQoL (F = 6.87, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.47). Reduced dependence for ADLs, improvements in symptoms consequent to stroke, and support related to living arrangements contributed to improved HRQoL and interventions for post-stroke patients in the transitional care service of a public hospital.

Successful relief of central poststroke pain with BurstDR spinal cord stimulation: A case series

Background

Central poststroke pain (CPSP) is a commonly undertreated condition that can negatively impact a patient's quality of life. The efficacy of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for the treatment of CPSP is not established due to limited studies.

Case Description

Here, two patients, ages 42 and 75, sustained strokes resulting in CPSP. After failed medical management, both underwent placement of paddle-lead SCS systems utilizing BurstDR stimulation that successfully resulted in pain resolution.

Conclusion

Two patients with CPSP were successfully treated with paddle lead SCS with BurstDR programming.

The trajectory of pain and pain intensity in the upper extremity after stroke over time: a prospective study in a rehabilitation population

PURPOSE

To assess the presence of upper extremity pain after stroke over time and the course of its intensity in patients with persistent pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with stroke completed a question on the presence of upper extremity pain (yes/no) and rated its intensity with a visual analogue scale (0-10) at 3, 18, and 30 months after starting multidisciplinary rehabilitation. The presence of upper extremity pain and its intensity over time were analysed with Generalized Estimating Equations models and Linear Mixed Models, respectively.

RESULTS

678 patients were included. The proportions of patients reporting upper extremity pain were 41.8, 36.0, and 32.7% at 3, 18, and 30 months, respectively, with the decline in proportions reaching statistical significance (odds ratio 0.82, 95% confidence interval 0.74-0.92, p < 0.001). At all time points, in those reporting pain the median intensity was 5.0 (interquartile ranges (IQR) 4.0-7.0 at 3 and 3.0-6.0 at 18 and 30 months). In the 73 patients with persistent pain, there was no significant change in intensity over time.

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of patients reporting upper extremity pain after stroke was considerable, despite a significant decrease in 2.5 years. In patients reporting persistent pain, the intensity did not change over time.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONAbout one-third of patients with stroke reported upper extremity pain at 30 months after starting rehabilitation.In patients with stroke who reported persistent upper extremity pain, there was no significant change in pain intensity over time.There is room for improvement of diagnosis and treatment of upper extremity pain in patients with stroke.

Factors Influencing Stroke Internal Stigma Among Stroke Survivors

Introduction

Poststroke internal stigmatization in patients is often overlooked, yet it makes significant contribution to their recovery and quality of life. After stroke, the survivors often have negative perception toward themselves triggered by the internal stigma. Consequently, it affects the rehabilitation outcomes and increases the risk of long-term complications. Therefore, deeper analysis related to the factors influencing the internal stigma was crucial in order to develop an appropriate and innovative strategy to overcome this issue and optimize the recovery in stroke survivors.

Objective

This study aimed to identify predominant factors influencing the internal stigma in stroke survivors in Indonesia.

Methods

This study used descriptive analytical design and applied stratified nonprobability consecutive sampling involving 439 poststroke respondents from nine hospitals in Bali throughout 2023. This study used various instruments, namely stroke stigma scale (SSS), perceived family support, stroke self-efficacy scale (SSEQ), stroke awareness questionnaire, self-acceptance scale, knowledge of stroke and the respondents' demographic data. The analysis was conducted using Pearson product-moment correlation and multiple regression.

Results

The results from multiple regression analysis showed that self-acceptance (β = .374, p = .000), self-awareness (β = .132, p = .000), self-efficacy (β = .154, p = .000), family support (β = .090, p = .015), age (β = .083, p = .000), and stroke symptoms (β = -.347, p = .000) could explain the internal stigma for 62.8% (F = 124.266, p = .000).

Conclusion

Self-acceptance became the most predominant factor towards internal stigma in the stroke survivors because it showed the ability in accepting changes after stroke, which eventually helped them to overcome the challenge and free themselves from internal stigma that interrupted the process of recovery and adaptation to poststroke physical and psychosocial changes.

Central neuropathic pain

Central neuropathic pain arises from a lesion or disease of the central somatosensory nervous system such as brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis or related neuroinflammatory conditions. The incidence of central neuropathic pain differs based on its underlying cause. Individuals with spinal cord injury are at the highest risk; however, central post-stroke pain is the most prevalent form of central neuropathic pain worldwide. The mechanisms that underlie central neuropathic pain are not fully understood, but the pathophysiology likely involves intricate interactions and maladaptive plasticity within spinal circuits and brain circuits associated with nociception and antinociception coupled with neuronal hyperexcitability. Modulation of neuronal activity, neuron-glia and neuro-immune interactions and targeting pain-related alterations in brain connectivity, represent potential therapeutic approaches. Current evidence-based pharmacological treatments include antidepressants and gabapentinoids as first-line options. Non-pharmacological pain management options include self-management strategies, exercise and neuromodulation. A comprehensive pain history and clinical examination form the foundation of central neuropathic pain classification, identification of potential risk factors and stratification of patients for clinical trials. Advanced neurophysiological and neuroimaging techniques hold promise to improve the understanding of mechanisms that underlie central neuropathic pain and as predictive biomarkers of treatment outcome.

Post-stroke Everything

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims at providing updates on selected post-stroke complications. We examined recent advances in diagnosing and treating the following post-stroke complications: cognitive impairment, epilepsy, depression, fatigue, tremors, dysphagia, and pain.

RECENT FINDINGS

Advances in understanding the mechanisms of post-stroke complications, in general, are needed despite advances made in understanding, treating, and preventing these complications. There are growing progresses in integrating new tools to diagnose post-stroke cognitive impairment. The potential role of acute stroke reperfusion treatment in post-stroke epilepsy and its impact on other stroke complications is getting more transparent. Post-stroke depression remains underestimated and new tools to diagnose depression after stroke are being developed. New promising pharmacological approaches to treating post-stroke pain are emerging. Tremors related to stroke are poorly understood and under-evaluated, while treatment towards post-stroke dysphagia has benefited from new non-pharmacological to pharmacological approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

An integrative approach to stroke complications and collaborations between providers across specialties are more likely to improve stroke outcomes.

Variation in the rate of recovery in motor function between the upper and lower limbs in patients with stroke: some proposed hypotheses and their implications for research and practice

Background

Stroke results in impairment of motor function of both the upper and lower limbs. However, although it is debatable, motor function of the lower limb is believed to recover faster than that of the upper limb. The aim of this paper is to propose some hypotheses to explain the reasons for that, and discuss their implications for research and practice.

Method

We searched PubMED, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase and CENTRAL using the key words, stroke, cerebrovascular accident, upper extremity, lower extremity, and motor recovery for relevant literature.

Result

The search generated a total of 2,551 hits. However, out of this number, 51 duplicates were removed. Following review of the relevant literature, we proposed four hypotheses: natural instinct for walking hypothesis, bipedal locomotion hypothesis, central pattern generators (CPGs) hypothesis and role of spasticity hypothesis on the subject matter.

Conclusion

We opine that, what may eventually account for the difference, is the frequency of use of the affected limb or intensity of the rehabilitation intervention. This is because, from the above hypotheses, the lower limb seems to be used more frequently. When limbs are used frequently, this will result in use-dependent plasticity and eventual recovery. Thus, rehabilitation techniques that involve high repetitive tasks practice such as robotic rehabilitation, Wii gaming and constraint induced movement therapy should be used during upper limb rehabilitation.

Palliative care needs of Jordanian women's experience of living with stroke: a descriptive phenomenological study

BACKGROUND

Stroke is a prevalent neurological disease that can have a profound impact on women's physical, psychosocial, and spiritual well-being. In many cases, women living with stroke may have marginalized palliative care needs that are often not adequately addressed by healthcare providers. Unfortunately, the experience of women with stroke and their specific palliative care needs have been largely overlooked in research conducted in Jordan.

AIM

The purpose of this study is to examine the specific palliative care needs of women who have experienced a stroke and are currently living in Jordan. By conducting this research, we aim to identify the various physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of women with stroke and gain a better understanding of how these needs can be addressed through palliative care interventions.

METHODS

This research utilized a phenomenological descriptive study approach to explore the experiences of twelve women recruited from the outpatient clinic of rehabilitation centers. The data was collected through semi-structured interviews. The analysis was conducted using the method of Colaizzi (1978), which involves identifying significant statements, extracting meanings, and formulating an exhaustive description of the phenomenon under study.

RESULTS

The study findings uncovered three primary themes that reflect the palliative care needs of women who are currently living with stroke in Jordan, including (1) Spiritual practices, beliefs, and needs; (2) Coping with distressing symptoms; and (3) Managing the delivery of unfavorable news.

DISCUSSION

This study provides valuable insights into the experiences of Jordanian women living with stroke, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of this condition on various aspects of their lives. The findings reveal that stroke has a significant impact on women's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being, with many facing unmet palliative care needs. By illuminating these challenges, our study underscores the importance of taking a holistic approach to stroke care that addresses the multifaceted needs of women living with stroke. Healthcare providers must consider these findings and integrate palliative care interventions into treatment plans to improve the quality of life of women living with stroke in Jordan.

CONCLUSION

This study provides valuable insights into the palliative care needs of women who have experienced a stroke. Our findings highlight the importance of addressing women's physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs as part of a comprehensive approach to stroke care. We recommend integrating palliative care interventions into rehabilitation programs to improve the quality of life of women living with stroke in Jordan. By doing so, we can address the pain and complications that can arise from stroke, while also providing holistic support to address the emotional and spiritual impact of the illness. This approach has the potential to improve outcomes for women living with stroke and enhance their overall well-being.

The Moderating Role of Motivation in the Real-Time Associations of Fatigue, Cognitive Complaints, and Pain With Depressed Mood Among Stroke Survivors: An Ecological Momentary Assessment Study

OBJECTIVE

Stroke symptoms fluctuate during the day as stroke survivors participate in daily activities. Understanding the real-time associations among stroke symptoms and depressed mood, as well as the role of motivation for daily activities, informs, and post-stroke symptom management in the context of everyday living. This study aimed to (1) investigate the real-time associations of fatigue, cognitive complaints, and pain with depressed mood and (2) examine the role of motivation for daily activity participation as a potential moderator of these associations in stroke survivors.

DESIGN

A prospective cohort study involving 7 days of ecological momentary assessment (EMA), during which participants completed 8 EMA surveys per day. Multilevel modeling was used to analyze data.

SETTING

Community.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty community-dwelling stroke survivors (N=40).

INTERVENTIONS

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

EMA measures of depressed mood, stroke symptoms (physical and mental fatigue, cognitive complaints, and pain), and motivation (autonomous motivation, controlled motivation).

RESULTS

Higher levels of within- and between-person physical fatigue, mental fatigue, cognitive complaints, and pain were momentarily associated with greater depressed mood (Ps<.001). Within-person autonomous motivation significantly buffered the momentary associations of physical fatigue (B=-0.06, P<.001), mental fatigue (B=-0.04, P=.032), and pain (B=-0.21, P<.001) with depressed mood.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings indicate the momentary associations of fatigue, cognitive complaints, and pain with depressed mood in stroke survivors. Autonomous motivation underpinning daily activity participation was found to buffer the associations of fatigue and pain with depressed mood. Promoting autonomous motivation for daily activity participation may be viable for preventing and mitigating poststroke depression.

A Comprehensive Review of the Effects of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy on Stroke Patients: Balance, Pain, Spasticity

Stroke remains a leading cause of disability worldwide, with survivors often experiencing impairments in balance, pain, spasticity, and control that limit their ability to perform daily living activities. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has emerged as a potential treatment modality to improve these outcomes in stroke patients. This review aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the effects of ESWT on stroke patients, focusing on the theoretical background, balance, pain reduction, muscle spasticity and control, and upper and lower extremities. This study reviewed the use of ESWT in treating balance, pain, and spasticity in stroke patients, focusing on articles published in PubMed between January 2003 and January 2023. Systematic reviews related to stroke were used to provide an overview of stroke, and a total of 33 articles related to balance, pain, and spasticity were selected. ESWT has several shock wave generation methods and application methods, and it has been shown to have positive therapeutic effects on various aspects of rehabilitation for stroke patients, such as improving balance, reducing pain, decreasing muscle spasticity and increasing control, and enhancing functional activities of the upper and lower extremities. The efficacy of ESWT may vary depending on the patient's condition, application method, and treatment area. Therefore, it is important to apply ESWT according to the individual characteristics of each patient in clinical practice to maximize its potential benefits.

Stellate ganglion block ameliorated central post-stroke pain with comorbid anxiety and depression through inhibiting HIF-1α/NLRP3 signaling following thalamic hemorrhagic stroke

BACKGROUND

Central post-stroke pain (CPSP) is an intractable and disabling central neuropathic pain that severely affects patients' lives, well-being, and socialization abilities. However, CPSP has been poorly studied mechanistically and its treatment remains challenging. Here, we used a rat model of CPSP induced by thalamic hemorrhage to investigate its underlying mechanisms and the effect of stellate ganglion block (SGB) on CPSP and emotional comorbidities.

METHODS

Thalamic hemorrhage was produced by injecting collagenase IV into the ventral-posterolateral nucleus (VPL) of the right thalamus. The up-and-down method with von Frey hairs was used to measure the mechanical allodynia. Behavioral tests were carried out to examine depressive and anxiety-like behaviors including the open field test (OFT), elevated plus maze test (EPMT), novelty-suppressed feeding test (NSFT), and forced swim test (FST). The peri-thalamic lesion tissues were collected for immunofluorescence, western blotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Genetic knockdown of thalamic hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) with microinjection of HIF-1α siRNA and NLRP3 siRNA into the VPL of thalamus were performed 3 days before collagenase injection into the same regions. Microinjection of lificiguat (YC-1) and MCC950 into the VPL of thalamus were administrated 30 min before the collagenase injection in order to inhibited HIF-1α and NLRP3 pharmacologically. Repetitive right SGB was performed daily for 5 days and laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) was conducted to examine cerebral blood flow.

RESULTS

Thalamic hemorrhage caused persistent mechanical allodynia and anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. Accompanying the persistent mechanical allodynia, the expression of HIF-1α and NLRP3, as well as the activities of microglia and astrocytes in the peri-thalamic lesion sites, were significantly increased. Genetic knockdown of thalamic HIF-1α and NLRP3 significantly attenuated mechanical allodynia and anxiety- and depression-like behaviors following thalamic hemorrhage. Further studies revealed that intra-thalamic injection of YC-1, or MCC950 significantly suppressed the activation of microglia and astrocytes, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, the upregulation of malondialdehyde (MDA), and the downregulation of superoxide dismutase (SOD), as well as mechanical allodynia and anxiety- and depression-like behaviors following thalamic hemorrhage. In addition, repetitive ipsilateral SGB significantly restored the upregulated HIF-1α/NLRP3 signaling and the hyperactivated microglia and astrocytes following thalamic hemorrhage. The enhanced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the oxidative stress in the peri-thalamic lesion sites were also reversed by SGB. Moreover, LSCI showed that repetitive SGB significantly increased cerebral blood flow following thalamic hemorrhage. Most strikingly, SGB not only prevented, but also reversed the development of mechanical allodynia and anxiety- and depression-like behaviors induced by thalamic hemorrhage. However, pharmacological activation of thalamic HIF-1α and NLRP3 with specific agonists significantly eliminated the therapeutic effects of SGB on mechanical allodynia and anxiety- and depression-like behaviors following thalamic hemorrhage.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated for the first time that SGB could improve CPSP with comorbid anxiety and depression by increasing cerebral blood flow and inhibiting HIF-1α/NLRP3 inflammatory signaling.

Research Hotspots and Frontiers in Post Stroke Pain: A Bibliometric Analysis Study

Background

Pain is a common complication after stroke with a high incidence and mortality rate. Many studies in the field of pain after stroke have been published in various journals. However, bibliometric analysis in the domain of pain after stroke is still lacking. This study aimed to deliver a visual analysis to analyze the global trends in research on the comorbidity of pain after stroke in the last 12 years.

Methods

The publications from the Web of Science (WoS) in the last 12 years (from 2010 to 2021) were collected and retrieved. CiteSpace software was used to analyze the relationship of publication year with countries, institutions, journals, authors, references, and keywords.

Results

A total of 322 publications were included in the analysis. A continuous but unstable growth in the number of articles published on pain after stroke was observed over the last 12 years. The Peoples' R China (65), Chang Gung University (10), and Topic in Stroke Rehabilitation (16) were the country, institution, and journal with the highest number of publications, respectively. Analysis of keywords showed that shoulder pain after stroke and central post-stroke pain were the research development trends and focus in this research field.

Conclusion

This study provides a visual analysis method for the trend and frontiers of pain research after stroke. In the future, large sample, randomized controlled trials are needed to identify the potential treatments and pathophysiology for pain after stroke.

Psychological interventions for post stroke pain: A systematic review

Chronic pain is prevalent after stroke and has a significant impact on quality of life. Research demonstrates the efficacy of psychological interventions for mixed chronic pain conditions. This review aimed to assess evidence on the effectiveness of psychological interventions for chronic pain in people with stroke. PubMed, PsychINFO, Embase, and CINAHL were searched from inception to 31 January 2021 at all levels of evidence. Psychological interventions assessing chronic pain in adults following stroke as a primary outcome were included. All outcomes related to pain quality were included (e.g., intensity, frequency, duration). Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Case Reports and Risk of Bias in N-of-1 Trials (RoBiNT) Scale. Three single n case reports were included. A narrative synthesis was performed, indicating that psychological interventions may reduce chronic post-stroke pain; however, overall quality appraisal of the included studies was poor, owing to the low internal validity found in the single-n case report designs. The limited evidence suggests that psychological interventions may have clinical utility in reducing chronic post-stroke pain. However, owing to the paucity and quality of studies found, the results must be treated with caution. More rigorous research is needed.

The impact of the UK COVID-19 pandemic on patient-reported health outcomes after stroke: a retrospective sequential comparison

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The COVID-19 pandemic and related social isolation measures are likely to have adverse consequences on community healthcare provision and outcome after acute illnesses treated in hospital, including stroke. We aimed to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patient-reported health outcomes after hospital admission for acute stroke.

METHODS

This retrospective study included adults with acute stroke admitted to the University College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Hyperacute Stroke Unit. We included two separate cohorts of consecutively enrolled patients from the same geographical population at two time points: 16th March-16th May 2018 (pre-COVID-19 pandemic); and 16th March-16th May 2020 (during the COVID-19 pandemic). Patients in both cohorts completed the validated Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29 (PROMIS-29 version 2.0) at 30 days after stroke.

RESULTS

We included 205 patients who were alive at 30 days (106 admitted before and 99 admitted during the COVID-19 pandemic), of whom 201/205 (98%) provided patient-reported health outcomes. After adjustment for confounding factors, admission with acute stroke during the COVID-19 pandemic was independently associated with increased anxiety (β = 28.0, p < 0.001), fatigue (β = 9.3, p < 0.001), depression (β = 4.5, p = 0.002), sleep disturbance (β = 2.3, p = 0.018), pain interference (β = 10.8, p < 0.001); and reduced physical function (β = 5.2, p < 0.001) and participation in social roles and activities (β = 6.9, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Compared with the pre-pandemic cohort, patients admitted with acute stroke during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic reported poorer health outcomes at 30 day follow-up in all domains. Stroke service planning for any future pandemic should include measures to mitigate this major adverse impact on patient health.

The Effects of a Movement-to-Music (M2M) Intervention on Physical and Psychosocial Outcomes in People Poststroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of a 12-week movement-to-music (M2M) intervention on physical and psychosocial outcomes in people poststroke.

DESIGN

Two-arm randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

A community-based fitness facility.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants (N=47) with stroke between 18 and 65 years old were randomized to M2M (n=23) or waitlist control (n=24).

INTERVENTIONS

Participants in M2M completed 3 60-minute exercise sessions per week for 12 weeks. Controls received biweekly educational newsletters via mail.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcomes included Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT, in meters), Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (FTSST, in seconds) and Timed Up and Go (TUG, in seconds). Secondary outcomes were self-reported measures using Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Fatigue and Pain Interference Short Form 8a. Outcomes were collected at baseline and postintervention. Analyses involved descriptive statistics and adjusted linear mixed models.

RESULTS

Mixed models adjusted for the respective baseline values and demographic variables showed that M2M participants had longer 6MWT distance (least square mean difference [LSM], 14.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], -12.9 to 42.0), more FTSST time (LSM, 2.0; 95% CI, -4.5 to 8.5), and less fatigue (LSM, -3.0; 95% CI, -7.2 to 1.2) compared with controls postintervention. When controlling for baseline TUG and demographic variables, there was a larger increase in 6MWT distance (LSM, 37.9; 95% CI, -22.7 to 98.6), lower FTSST time (LSM, -6.1; 95% CI, -18.5 to 6.2), and decrease in fatigue (LSM, -6.5; 95% CI, -13.1 to 0.2) in the M2M group compared with controls. Moderate effect sizes were observed for improving 6MWT (d=0.6), FTSST (d=-0.6), and fatigue (d=-0.6). There was no group difference in change in TUG time and pain interference, with trivial effect sizes (d=-0.1).

CONCLUSION

M2M may be a valuable exercise form for adults with stroke. Future studies are needed to determine optimal exercise doses for improving health and function in this population.

Influence of mobility restrictions on post-stroke pain

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to investigate the role of mobility limitations and vitality, as well as additional factors such as comorbidities, to predict post-stroke pain.

MATERIALS & METHODS

This study included cross-sectional data from 214 participants living in varied settings in different parts of Sweden. Participants were asked to complete the Stroke Impact Scale, Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36, and Self-administered Comorbidity Questionnaire to evaluate mobility, vitality, comorbidities, and pain. Descriptive statistics were used for demographic and clinical characteristics. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to predict the pain domain score on Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36.

RESULTS

The mean age of all participants in the sample was 66 years (SD 14); 43.4% of the study population were women. After analyses, "standing without losing balance and vitality'' were found to be significant predictors in the model which explained the pain score on Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the results suggest that restrictions in mobility and low vitality have an important role on the occurrence of post-stroke pain. Having post-stroke pain could be due to not able to stand without losing balance and low vitality. Thus, rehabilitation professionals may consider the importance of these factors, especially mobility restrictions, in preventing post-stroke pain.

Health-Related Quality of Life and Psychological Features in Post-Stroke Patients with Chronic Pain: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Neuro-Rehabilitation Context of Care

This study aims at exploring disability, health-related quality of life (HrQoL), psychological distress, and psychological features in post-stroke patients with chronic pain. An observational cross-sectional study involving 50 post-stroke patients (25 with chronic pain and 25 without pain) was conducted. The primary outcome was the self-reported level of disability and HrQoL which were both assessed through the Stroke Impact Scale 3.0. Both psychological distress and specific psychological features (i.e., self-efficacy, coping strategies, psychological flexibility, perceived social support) were examined. Post-stroke patients with chronic pain reported statistically significant higher levels of disability and worse HrQoL, higher psychological distress and inflexibility, as well as a lower level of self-efficacy and problem-oriented coping strategies than patients without pain (p < 0.001). Finally, correlation analysis in the group of stroke survivors with pain showed that higher levels of disability were significantly related to higher psychological distress. This study confirms the negative influence of chronic pain on disability and HrQoL in post-stroke patients and presents preliminary insights on the association between chronic pain, disability, HrQoL, psychosocial distress, and the patient’s approach in dealing with personal difficulties and emotions. These findings carry further implications for multidisciplinary management of post-stroke patients with chronic pain.