Prevalence and pattern of post-stroke pain among stroke Survivors in Kano Metropolis

Background
Post-stroke pain (PSP) is a significant issue that can severely impact the functional use of limbs and mobility, thereby affecting the quality of life in stroke survivors. Despite its clinical importance, the prevalence and patterns of post-stroke pain are not well-documented, especially in specific populations.

Aims
This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and patterns of post-stroke pain among stroke survivors in the Kano metropolis, Nigeria, with a focus on musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain. It also explored the associations between post-stroke pain and socio-demographic as well as clinical factors.

Material and methods
This cross-sectional study recruited participants through convenience sampling from three major hospitals in Kano metropolis, Nigeria. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Health and Research Ethics Committee of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital and the Kano State Ministry of Health. Written informed consent was secured from all participants. To assess musculoskeletal pain (MSP) and neuropathic pain (NP), the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs Pain Scale (LANSS) were employed.

Results
A total of 83 stroke survivors participated in the study, with a majority being female (60.2%) and aged between 54 and 62 years. Nearly half of the participants (45.8%) had experienced a stroke for a duration of ≥1 year. Shoulder pain emerged as the most common form of MSP, affecting 53.0% of participants within the past 7 days and 56.6% in the past 12 months. NP was observed in only 9.6% of participants. There was a statistically significant association between the side of the stroke and shoulder pain (χ² = 5.355, p = 0.021).

Conclusions
Shoulder pain is the most prevalent form of MSP among stroke survivors, and it is significantly associated with the side of the stroke. NP occurs at a lower rate. Effective post-stroke management should prioritize the prevention and treatment of shoulder pain