Predictor factors of hemiplegic shoulder pain in a group of stroke patients

Background: Shoulder pain is a common complication of hemiplegia, and many risk factors may predispose a stroke patient to shoulder pain. The aim of this study was to find out the factors that can predict the hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) after stroke. We used explorative design methods based on Logistic Regression. Methods: The sample of this study consisted of 152 patients (77 female and 75 male) with diagnosis of acute cerebrovascular accident (CVA) referred to the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences during a period of 3 years. Several variables were considered through patients’ personal medical history, physical examination, laboratory data, questionnaire, psychological tests and interview. Results: 32% of the patients had an experience of HSP after stroke. The critical time for the occurrence of HSP was between 2 and 6 months after the onset of CVA. Logistic Regression showed that the best predictors for HSP were “Activity of daily living ability”, “Increased light touch threshold” and “Increased vibration threshold”. Conclusion: Patients with serious sensory and motor disability have more chance for HSP symptoms after stroke, so each stroke treatment method should include a plan for prevention of HSP.