Phantom Limb

Phantom Limb, and Phantom Limb Pain (PLP)

Understanding Phantom Limb: Explaining the Sensation of a Missing Limb

After an amputation surgery, individuals may feel as though their amputated arm or leg is still there. They may even attempt to use or stand on the phantom limb, although this usually only happens once. This sensation can be quite vivid, causing the amputee to believe that the limb is physically present.

It’s important to note that the experience of a phantom limb is not indicative of any complications. In fact, it is often seen as a positive sign that the wound is healing well. The brain is simply receiving signals that it interprets as coming from the missing limb.

While the exact causes of phantom limb sensations are not fully understood, researchers believe that it is related to the complex way our brains interpret and process sensory information. When a limb is amputated, the brain’s neural pathways may continue to send signals to the area, resulting in the perception of a phantom limb.

Though the sensation may initially be disorienting or even painful, most amputees gradually adjust and find ways to cope with the phantom limb phenomenon. There are techniques that can assist with PLP such as mirror therapy and virtual reality that have been developed to help manage phantom limb pain and improve functionality.

Understanding and accepting the concept of phantom limbs can greatly assist in the rehabilitation and emotional well-being of amputees. By acknowledging that the sensation is normal and that it will not impede the healing process, individuals can focus on their recovery and adapt to their new circumstances with resilience and optimism.

Different Sensations

Sensations in your phantom limb may be inconsistent. These feelings might not necessarily be painful – they can be quite pleasant. You may feel a mild tingling, stronger pins and needles, and occasionally more painful sensations. You may also experience itchiness, tightness, burning, numbness, coldness, or be certain that your limb is still there and you can wriggle toes or move fingers.

You could feel that the missing hand or foot is gradually getting closer to your stump. If this happens, the phantom limb may slowly get shorter and finally disappear.

Relief from Pain

For the first few days after the operation, phantom limb sensations can be painful. In time, phantom sensations and pain generally become less intense and less frequent. If you are tired, upset or run down, or the weather is oppressive, or the prosthesis is ill-fitting, phantom limb pain can increase. So it is a good idea to look after yourself, keep fairly active and make sure that your limb is well-fitting.

Suggestions for Managing Pain:

• Wrap the residual limb in a warm, soft fabric, such as a towel or heating pad. The warmth will sometimes increase circulation.
• Mentally exercise the limb that is not there in the area that is painful.
• Mentally relax the missing limb and its residual portion.
• Exercise the residual limb by tightening muscles in the residual limb, then releasing them slowly. Alternatively, massage the residual limb.
• Do some mild overall exercise to increase circulation.
• If there is pain with the prosthesis on, take it and the prosthetic liner off and put them back on after a few minutes. Sometimes the residual limb is being pinched and changing the way it is on will relieve the pressure.
• Change positions. If sitting, move around in the chair, or stand up to let the blood get down into the residual limb.
• Tap the end of your residual limb with your fingers.
• Some people find help through self-hypnosis, biofeedback, and chiropractic therapy.

Track Pain and Seek Help

Keep a diary of when pain is most severe. This can help assist in identifying recurring causes.

If PLP is excessive, continuous, or concerning, advice from a prosthetist or your medical team should be sought. Medications may assist with PLP, or access to a pain clinic could be appropriate.