Enhancing patient–provider communication for long‐term post‐stroke spasticity management

Stroke is a major public health concern, with estimated 16 million people worldwide experiencing first‐time strokes each year, a number that is expected to rise. Two‐thirds of those experiencing a stroke are younger than 70 years of age. Stroke is a leading cause of disability in adults as a result of major sequelae that include spasticity, cognitive impairment, paresis, and depression. Disabling spasticity, defined as spasticity severe enough to require intervention, occurs in 4% of stroke survivors within 1 year of first‐time stroke. The aim of this report is to focus instead on a discussion of patient–provider communication, and its role in post‐stroke spasticity (PSS) rehabilitation within the context of patient‐centered health care. A discussion based on a review of the literature, mainly since 2000. Problems within communication are identified and suggestion to enhance communication are proposed thus improving patient‐centered goal setting/goal achievement for the effective management of spasticity rehabilitation. These are as follows: (i) involving family members, (ii) educating patients and family members on stroke and rehabilitation, and (iii) establishing a common definition for long‐term goals. Increased communication among physicians, patients, and payers may bridge some of the gaps and increase the effectiveness of PSS rehabilitation and management.
Source: Acta Neurologica Scandinavica - Category: Neurology Authors: Tags: Review Article Source Type: research