Development of entrapment neuropathies in acute stroke patients

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Stroke is the third most common cause of mortality and is one of the most common causes of morbidity in the world. Polyneuropathies and entrapment neuropathies are known as the complications of stroke. AIMS OF THE STUDY: In this study we aimed to evaluate the development of entrapment neuropathies in severe stroke patients within the first month of the event. METHODS: Twenty first-ever stroke patients were included in the study. The nerve conduction studies were performed within the first 48 h and repeated 1 month later. RESULTS: At the end of the first month, seven of the 20 patients had median nerve entrapment at the wrist, five had ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow and seven had peroneal nerve entrapment at the fibular head in the hemiparetic side. Three patients had median nerve entrapment at the wrist, one patient had ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow, and none had peroneal nerve entrapment in the non-paretic side. CONCLUSION: Our results confirm that, in severe hemiparetic patients, the entrapment neuropathies may be commonly seen, especially in the paretic extremities. The early rehabilitation programs against the development of entrapment neuropathies may be beneficial in stroke patients.