Phantom Limb Pain

Phantom limb is a complex pain phenomenon that is perceived by patients after a limb has been amputated. Many patients have the persistent perception that the particular limb that was lost is still present. This phenomenon, which may be painful and nonpainful, may develop immediately after amputation or in years following the incident. This phenomenon should not be confused with residual limb pain, formerly described as “stump pain,” which is pain that resides in the residual limb attached to the body. Phantom limb pain (PLP) is described similarly to other neuropathic pain conditions as burning, gnawing, stabbing, pressure, aching, squeezing, and knifelike. PLP is associated with a myriad of symptoms and considered one of the most challenging chronic pain conditions. The underlying mechanism of this phenomenon can be supraspinal, spinal, and peripheral. PLP remains a very challenging condition to treat. The therapies are similar to those of any other neuropathic pain states. A multimodal approach that includes interventional therapy, pharmacotherapy, rehabilitation, surgery, and preemptive analgesia working together improves success.  Key words: Amputation, amputee, central sensitization, mirror therapy, neuropathic pain, phantom limb pain, residual limb pain