A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted in some form. Many people know the typical warning signs of a stroke (slurred speech, weakness on one side of the body, etc.) but strokes can also cause pain in the neck and back. In this article we are going to discuss the potential risk of back and neck pain after a stroke.

What to Expect after a Stroke

Strokes happen when the blood supply to the brain is blocked. When sufficient blood can’t get to the brain, it results in a decrease in oxygen, which kills off brain cells. Stokes can be caused by blocked arteries or burst blood vessels.

Here are some of the common after-effects you may experience after having a stroke:

• Weakness or paralysis
• Pain and/or tingling throughout the body
• Cognitive difficulties (memory issues, confusion)
• Trouble swallowing
• Fatigue

There are more potential after-effects, but these are the most common. Specific symptoms can also depend heavily on which side of the brain was most impacted by the stroke. For example, left brain strokes are more likely to result in speech issues, while right brain strokes are more likely to cause vision problems.

Treating Back Pain after a Stroke

Treating a patient for back or neck pain after a stroke requires extra care. Stroke sufferers often have numerous symptoms present. Successful treatment has to begin with a full examination and diagnosis of all symptoms. Once that is complete, a treatment plan can be put together. Many symptoms can be treated with physical therapy, various medications, and other conservative methods. If the nerves of the spine or brain have been affected, a minimally invasive surgery may be the best course of action.

If you recognize any of the signs of a stroke, call 911 immediately. If you are dealing with back or neck pain after your stroke, make an appointment with a spine doctor for a full diagnosis and treatment plan.

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