Problem

Phantom limb pain

Nature:

A phantom limb is the sensation that an amputated or missing limb is still attached. It is a chronic condition which is often resistant to treatment. When the cut ends of sensory fibres are stimulated during thigh movements, the patient feels as if the sensation is arising from the non-existent limb. Sometimes the patient might feel pain in the non-existent limb. Approximately 80–100% of individuals with an amputation experience sensations in their amputated limb. However, only a small percentage will experience painful phantom limb sensation (phantom pain). These sensations are relatively common in amputees and usually resolve within two to three years without treatment. Research continues to explore the underlying mechanisms of phantom limb pain (PLP) and effective treatment options.

Broader Problems:
Pain
Symptoms of nervous system diseases
Ill-defined health conditions
Values:
Pain
References:
Siegfried, J and Zimmermann, M: Phantom and Stump Pain
Subject(s):
Medicine → Locomotive, integumentary system
Medicine → Nervous system
Related UN Sustainable Development Goals:
GOAL 3: Good Health and Well-being
Problem Type:
E: Emanations of other problems
Date of last update
06.08.2019 – 04:36 CEST