Phantom limb

Phantom limb is a phenomenon where individuals who have had a limb amputated, or were born without a limb, continue to feel sensations as if the limb is still present. These sensations can include pain, which is referred to as phantom limb pain.

Causes

The exact cause of phantom limb is not known, but it is believed to be due to changes in the brain and spinal cord after amputation. The brain continues to receive signals from the nerves that originally carried impulses from the missing limb, leading to the sensation that the limb is still present.

Symptoms

Symptoms of phantom limb can include sensations of:

• The limb still being present
• Pain in the missing limb
• Tingling, cramping, or heat in the missing limb
• The missing limb being in an uncomfortable position

Treatment

Treatment for phantom limb can include:

• Medications such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and narcotics
• Nerve blocks
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Psychotherapy
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• Mirror box therapy

See also

• Body integrity identity disorder
• Neuropathic pain
• Prosthesis
• Referred pain

References

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External links

• Mayo Clinic - Phantom Pain
• WebMD - Phantom Limb Pain

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