What will help with mom's post-stroke pain?
Answers
Sorry to hear about your situation. I have a few thoughts:
There are typically two types of pain in the extremities that a stroke victim can suffer. The first are "referred pains" that come from the interruption of the normal sensory pathways to the limb. These are often treated with medications such as gabapentin, pregabalin, amitriptyline, or duloxetine. Non-medical treatments would include accupuncture and massage.
The second type of pain comes from muscle spasticity. This is probably best treated with boltulinum toxin injections into the effected muscles. Medications for this also include baclofen, Valium, and Xanaflex, but I find that these are less effective than the injections. Accupuncture, massage, and range of motion exercises can also be very effective for these pains.
I would seek out a Neurologist or, better yet, a Physiatrist (Physical Medicine Physician) to help with these treatments. I would definitely avoid Vicodin and other opiates if at all possible, as these give good short term gains but long term are very harmful, as they lead to opiate induced hyperalgesia - a very terrible condition.
I hope this helps. Good luck.
hello, my mum had the same kind of stroke however at 58 she has had age on her side and is able to swallow and has bladder control. Her hemiplegic arm caused her agony for some months but now she is taking Baclofen and Pregabalin. occasionally she will take an opiate but rarely. Massage helps and it seems to be better when it isn't strapped. Also wrapping her arm with an elasticised bandage prevents a build up of fluid. It is horrible to see your mum going through this pain, I hope this helps. Also find out about the 'mirror box'.. if it is more neuralgic then this may be an option..
