Up to one in five people who have a stroke may develop central post-stroke pain (CPSP). It is also known as neuropathic pain or central pain syndrome. It usually starts within three to six months after a stroke, but it can begin earlier.
What is CPSP?
There are different types of pain you might experience if you have CPSP. Many people describe it as a burning or burning cold sensation, or a throbbing or shooting pain. Some people also have pins and needles or numbness in the affected areas. For most stroke survivors with CPSP, the pain occurs in the side of their body affected by the stroke.
What causes CPSP?
CPSP happens when areas of the brain that interpret pain signals are affected by the stroke.
Some people find this pain becomes worse because of other factors, such as movement or a change in temperature.
How is CPSP treated?
Ordinary painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen do not help with CPSP. Some types of drug that change the chemicals in the brain can be helpful. The main drugs used include amitriptyline and the anti-epilepsy drugs gabapentin and pregabalin.
Your doctor and pharmacist will support you to find the right dose or combination of drugs that work for you.
If treatments have been unsuccessful, you might be able to access a pain clinic. Contact your GP for help.
Alternative ways of managing pain after stroke
If you find medication has not helped to relieve your pain, there are some other approaches you can try.