Why does shoulder subluxation occur after stroke?
During the initial period following a stroke, the hemiplegic arm is flaccid or hypotonic. The shoulder muscles can not anchor the humeral head within the glenoid cavity, resulting in a high risk of shoulder subluxation.
How do you assess shoulder subluxation in stroke?
During physical examinations, subluxation is detected by palpation of the glenohumeral joint. The extent of shoulder subluxation can be quantified by the distance from the acromion to the humeral head, using fingerbreadth, caliper, or tape.
Why does subluxation occur in stroke?
In the time just after the stroke, a weak or paralyzed arm often hangs down at the side of the body, subjecting the arm to the effects of gravity and stretching tissues to the point of dislocation. Without the support of the shoulder muscles, the joint capsule stretches causing subluxation.
What does subluxation of shoulder feel like?
What Are Symptoms of Subluxation? A partial shoulder dislocation may cause pain, joint instability, arm weakness, numbness or tingling down your arm, and swelling. When the humerus moves out of place, it can damage muscles, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels in the shoulder joint.
What causes shoulder pain after a stroke?
The most common cause of shoulder pain after stroke is spasticity. Spasticity is muscle tightness caused by the neurological impact of stroke. Meaning, when stroke damages the part of the brain that controls your shoulder muscles, your shoulder no longer receives messages to relax or contract.
What causes shoulder joint pain in stroke patients?
Incorrect positioning. Poor positioning increases stress on the shoulder which can result in pain.
How are stroke and shoulder pain related?
Muscle stiffness after stroke is often due to a condition called spasticity . When spasticity increases stiffness in the arm and shoulder, it can lead to shoulder pain. Arm paralysis. When stroke patients suffer from hemiplegia (paralysis in half the body), up to 80% will experience shoulder pain.