Coenzyme Q10 As A Risk Factor for Myofascial Pain Syndrome in Post-Ischemic Stroke Patients: A Literature Review

Alegra Rifani Masharto^1*, Kohar Hari Santoso², Arie Utariani²

Abstract

Stroke remains a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide, with 85% of cases classified as ischemic due to arterial blockage and resulting neuronal injury. Among post-stroke complications, musculoskeletal disorders significantly impact quality of life and rehabilitation outcomes. Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS), characterized by chronic pain from myofascial trigger points (MTrPs), is frequently observed following ischemic stroke. MTrPs produce localized tenderness, referred pain, muscle weakness, restricted mobility, and autonomic symptoms, arising from muscle imbalance, spasticity, immobility, oxidative stress, and impaired muscle metabolism. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), or ubiquinone, is a lipid-soluble molecule integral to mitochondrial bioenergetics, playing critical roles in ATP synthesis and antioxidative defense by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS). Emerging studies link reduced CoQ10 levels to diseases involving oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired cellular energy metabolism, including ischemic stroke and musculoskeletal disorders. Clinically, stroke patients exhibit significantly decreased serum CoQ10 concentrations associated with greater stroke severity and poorer outcomes. CoQ10 deficiency potentially contributes directly to MPS by compromising mitochondrial function, increasing oxidative stress, and promoting inflammation within muscle tissues, leading to trigger point formation and chronic pain. Clinical evidence supports CoQ10 supplementation as beneficial in reducing pain intensity and improving muscle function and quality of life in patients with chronic musculoskeletal disorders. Identifying and correcting CoQ10 deficiency post-stroke may thus offer therapeutic potential to prevent or reduce MPS. Further randomized clinical trials are necessary to confirm the efficacy, optimal dosage, and long-term benefits of CoQ10 supplementation for stroke rehabilitation.

Keywords

coenzyme Q10; ischemic stroke; myofascial pain syndrome; oxidative stress.

Cite This Article

Masharto, A. R., Santoso, K. H., Utariani, A. (2025). Coenzyme Q10 As A Risk Factor for Myofascial Pain Syndrome in Post-Ischemic Stroke Patients: A Literature Review. International Journal of Scientific Advances (IJSCIA), Volume 6| Issue 2: Mar-Apr 2025, Pages 399-405 URL: https://www.ijscia.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Volume6-Issue3-May-Jun-No.872-399-405.pdf

Volume 6 | Issue 2: Mar – Apr 2025