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Stroke: Preventing Injury in Affected Limbs
Stroke: Preventing Injury in Affected Limbs
Overview
After a stroke, you may not feel temperature, touch, pain, or sharpness on one side of your body. This may lead to injuries such as:
- Cuts and scratches.
These can happen if your nails aren't kept short and smooth. For example, if you can't feel sensations in your feet, you won't know if your toenail is cutting into your skin.
- Burns.
If you can't feel heat on your affected side, you may be more likely to get burns.
- Shoulder problems.
If you have poor muscle tone in an arm, you may be at risk for shoulder problems, such as a dislocated shoulder.
- Swelling.
Swelling occurs when the affected arm or leg can't move for a long period of time. A large amount of swelling can:
- Increase the risk of skin sores (pressure injuries).
- Increase your chance of having the joint stiffen (contracture).
- Cause pain and discomfort in and around the swollen tissues.
Preventing injuries
In stroke rehab, you can learn how to prevent injury on your affected side. Your stroke rehab team can suggest things that are specific for you. But here are some general tips.
Current as of: March 28, 2022
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Richard D. Zorowitz MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
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Stroke Rehabilitation
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