Everything You Need to Know About Phantom Limb Pain

Last updated 3 months ago

Studies show that at least 90% of limb amputee patients will experience phantom limb pain. Fortunately, many pain management doctors offer treatment options for patient suffering from phantom limb pain. Before you contact your pain management facility, boost your knowledge with these facts about phantom limb pain.

Understanding Phantom Limb Pain
Phantom limb pain refers to the sensation that a body part that has been removed or amputated is still attached to the body. This is often the result of inflammation, nerve damage at the site of the missing limb, or neural remapping or cross wiring of the nervous system. Individuals with phantom limb pain often express the feeling that their limb is still moving appropriately with other parts of the body but feels shorted or is distorted into a painful position. The pain experienced may be achy, sharp, shooting, or cause a burning sensation. In addition to feeling pain or that the removed limb is still attached, individuals with phantom limb conditions may experience tingling, numbness, or hot and cold sensations.
Risk Factors
While phantom limb pain tends to lessen over time for many individuals, there are certain factors that may increase phantom limb pain. This includes being overly tired, changes in the weather, stress, or infection. Additional factors that may increase phantom limb pain include poor blood flow, swelling of the part of the limb that is still there, ill-fitting artificial limbs, and putting too much pressure on the remaining portion of the limb.
Treatment Options
Patients whose phantom limb pain does not recede over time may benefit from a number of treatment options, including physical therapy or spinal cord stimulation. In addition, patients preparing for an amputation can help reduce the chances of phantom limb pain by undergoing preoperative pain management therapies.

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