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

• Main Authors: Hannah Payton, Andrew Soundy
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-08-01
• Series: Behavioral Sciences
• Subjects: review; stroke; pain; quality of life
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-328X/10/8/128

<i>Background</i>: Many people experience post-stroke pain (PSP). It is a long-term consequence of stroke that commonly goes unrecognised and untreated. As a result, an integrative review is needed to identify the primary factors that affect PSP and determine the impact on quality of life (QOL). <i>Methods</i>: An integrative review using a quantitatively led data synthesis, supported by qualitative evidence, was conducted. <i>Results</i>: Fourteen studies were identified and 2415 (968 females, 1447 males) people were included. Five primary themes were identified as effecting the experience of PSP; anxiety, depression, fatigue, cognitive function and physical function. Anxiety, depression and fatigue increase PSP. Pain, depression, fatigue and reduced physical function lower QOL. <i>Conclusions</i>: It is essential that clinicians recognise PSP in order to optimize QOL and function post-stroke. Further research is needed to employ a strategy to identify and objectively quantify PSP and its impact on QOL.