Body
After an amputation, it is common to experience feelings as if they occurred in the limb that is missing.
Any of the following are typical of phantom limb sensation:
? tingling
? prickly sensation
? numbness
? hot or cold
? toes or fingers feel like they are moving
? the limb feels like it is still there or is in a funny position
? it feels like the limb is getting shorter – this is called 'telescoping'
All the feelings are very real; 'phantom' refers to the fact that the limb is missing. The important thing to know is that phantom limb sensations are normal; almost all people with amputations experience them to some degree.
How long does phantom limb sensation last?
This is different for everyone. For most people the sensations decrease over the course of a few weeks or a few months – they become weaker and happen less. The character of the phantom sensations may change too. Often it feels like the phantom limb is getting shorter; for others the upper part of the limb may fade away and the foot or hand sensation will remain. For many people, the sensation will go completely away in a few weeks or a few months. For others, the sensations may persist indefinitely. In general, almost everyone becomes accustomed to the phantom limb feelings.
What about phantom limb pain?
All people have some pain in the residual limb right after the amputation. This is surgical pain and it is unavoidable. Fortunately, this pain goes away in a few days or weeks just like any other surgical pain. Pain felt in the missing part of the limb is called ‘phantom limb pain.' Many amputees feel some phantom limb pain. It is usually described as:
? sharp or shooting pain
? achy pain
? burning
Phantom limb pain is usually worse just after amputation and typically decreases in the first few weeks after surgery. It may sometimes persist as an infrequent, short spell of pain lasting a few seconds or a few minutes. About 10–20% of people have persistent phantom pain at a lower, tolerable level. Only a small number of patients have ongoing severe phantom limb pain.
Is phantom limb pain treatable?
Yes, there are several ways to treat phantom limb pain. One of the easiest and best treatments is massage. Massaging the residual limb helps to decrease pain and can control the problem. You may also try massaging the limb with different texture materials to help desensitize the limb. Other simple treatments include tapping, friction rub and compression socks. Phantom limb pain is often linked with stress. Many people find that relaxation and stress reduction improve the ability to cope with pain.
Phantom limb pain can also be treated with a variety of different prescription medicines. It is important that you discuss any phantom limb pain with your doctor.
