Are Symptoms of Spasticity, Pain, and Fatigue Related in People With Stroke?

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Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine whether symptoms of spasticity, pain, and fatigue are correlated in people with stroke. Design: A longitudinal-correlation, mixed-method design was used. Methods: Spasticity, pain, and fatigue symptoms were explored in 22 patients with stroke admitted to three different rehabilitation units certified by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Data were obtained upon admission, postdischarge, and 1 month after discharge. Demographics, numeric ratings, and a semistructured interview were used to determine associations over time. Results: Symptoms of spasticity, pain, and fatigue were quite variable. Fatigue was more likely to impair recovery. Spasticity appears to contain pain experiences. Pain does not appear to be a major factor over time. Conclusions: In this sample of patients with stroke, symptoms of spasticity, pain, and fatigue were correlated. Clinical Relevance: In managing poststroke spasticity, pain, and fatigue, nurses should recognize that these symptoms are correlated.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)31-40
Number of pages10
JournalRehabilitation Nursing
Volume47
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2022

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
The work was supported by a grant to Dr. Bhimani from the Rehabilitation Nursing Foundation (Grant No. 1802).

Publisher Copyright:
Copyright © 2021 Association of Rehabilitation Nurses.

Keywords

  • Fatigue
  • Pain
  • Spasticity
  • Stroke

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