Central Post Stroke Pain

Central Post-Stroke Pain (CPSP) is a complex condition that can develop after a stroke, affecting how the brain processes pain signals. This neurological pain may persist even after other stroke symptoms improve, significantly impacting comfort and quality of life. At Covenant Spine and Neurology, our team of board-certified specialists provides advanced diagnostic evaluation and personalized treatment for patients experiencing post-stroke pain, helping restore comfort and functionality through comprehensive, multidisciplinary care.

Understanding Central Post-Stroke Pain

After a stroke, damage to the brain’s sensory pathways can disrupt how the nervous system perceives and interprets pain. As a result, the brain may mistakenly register normal sensations as painful, even in the absence of tissue injury.

 

Common symptoms include:

 

  • Persistent burning, aching, or stabbing pain

  • Increased sensitivity to touch or temperature changes

  • Pain triggered by light pressure, clothing, or movement

  • Discomfort that may worsen with stress, fatigue, or cold environments

Central Post-Stroke Pain can appear weeks or months after a stroke, making early diagnosis and proper management essential for improving daily function and emotional well-being.

Causes and Risk Factors

CPSP occurs when the part of the brain responsible for processing sensory information, typically the thalamus, brainstem, or cortical regions is damaged during a stroke. This can cause pain signals to become distorted or amplified. Risk factors may include:

 

  • A history of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke

  • Damage to sensory-processing areas of the brain

  • Co-existing conditions such as depression, anxiety, or neuropathy

  • Delayed rehabilitation or limited physical activity after stroke

Understanding these underlying factors allows our specialists to tailor an effective, evidence-based treatment plan for each patient.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

At Covenant Spine and Neurology, we take a thorough and compassionate approach to diagnosing Central Post-Stroke Pain.

 

Our evaluation may include:

 

  • Detailed neurological examination to identify sensory changes and pain patterns

  • Advanced imaging (MRI or CT scans) to determine the location and extent of brain injury

  • Pain and sensory mapping to assess response to temperature, touch, and pressure

  • Review of stroke history and rehabilitation progress to understand symptom evolution

Accurate diagnosis is critical to rule out other causes of pain and to design a treatment plan that targets both neurological and physical components.

Treatment Options for Central Post-Stroke Pain

Our specialists use a combination of medical, interventional, and rehabilitative approaches to reduce pain and improve function. Treatment is highly individualized and may include:

 

Medication Management

 

  • Neuropathic pain medications (such as certain anticonvulsants or antidepressants)

  • Anti-inflammatory or pain-relief therapies

  • Topical agents or nerve pain modulators

Interventional Procedures

 

  • Nerve blocks to interrupt pain signals

  • Spinal cord stimulation or neuromodulation for chronic, treatment-resistant pain

  • Targeted injections for symptom relief in specific regions

Rehabilitation and Supportive Care

 

  • Physical and occupational therapy to promote mobility and retrain sensory pathways

  • Cognitive and behavioral therapies to help manage pain perception

  • Lifestyle and wellness guidance to support emotional and physical recovery

Our multidisciplinary approach ensures that every aspect of your recovery — from pain control to mental well-being — is supported.

Why Choose Covenant Spine and Neurology

Covenant Spine and Neurology is dedicated to improving the lives of patients recovering from neurological conditions such as stroke. Our team combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate, patient-centered care to help individuals regain control, comfort, and independence.

 

What sets us apart:

 

  • Board-certified neurologists and pain specialists

  • Personalized, evidence-based care plans

  • State-of-the-art diagnostics and interventional options

  • Collaborative approach with referring physicians and rehabilitation teams

Take the First Step Toward Relief

You don’t have to live with post-stroke pain. Let the experienced team at Covenant Spine and Neurology help you find the answers and relief you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and begin your path to better health and restored quality of life or click here to find a location near you.

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For more information or to schedule an appointment call us at 336-761-4020.

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