What is it?
- Common condition after a stroke. Occurs when the shoulder muscle appears weak and “heavy”
- Caused by paralysis (muscle weakness), changes in muscle tone, and poor shoulder alignment
- Can cause pain, decreased movement in the shoulder, or shoulder separation ( shoulder subluxation)
Protection is Important!
The shoulder joint is very vulnerable after hemiplegia. Not protecting the shoulder can lead to further injury and pain.
- Do NOT pull on the affected arm
- Do NOT lift the person under the arm
- Do NOT let the arm hang unsupported
How to position the shoulder:
- When in bed lying flat on back = support the affected shoulder on a pillow
- When in bed lying on affected side = affected arm forward – not behind or under
- When in bed lying on unaffected side = affected arm on pillows in front
- When In Chair/Wheelchair = supported on lap trap or table
- When in standing or walking = arm sling
