Phantom Limb Pain

Most people have heard of phantom limb pain but cannot imagine the sensation unless they experience it themselves. This condition is a type of neuropathy that can cause chronic pain in those with amputated limbs. While some cases of phantom limb pain dissipate over time, other cases can become chronic and debilitating. Our pain physicians at Medici Orthopaedics & Spine help patients with phantom limb pain find a combination of treatments to give them relief and manage their pain.

What Causes Phantom Pain?

Even though a limb is amputated, the peripheral sensory nerves that sent signals to the brain still exist. The nerve endings may be gone, but the nerve pathways to the limb are still in place. When the limb is removed, the nerves and tissue at the amputation site may be damaged. The nerve damage can cause signals of pain and other sensations to be sent to the brain. The brain interprets the signals as limb sensations, even though the limb is no longer there. This can include pain but also sensations like temperature, pressure and cramping.

Management of Chronic Phantom Limb Pain

In most cases of chronic phantom limb pain, a multidisciplinary approach is needed for pain management. At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine, we personalize every treatment plan for chronic pain and determine the best plan to give our patients relief. For phantom limb pain, this may include treatments to relieve nerve irritation or pressure, as well as pain management techniques. Nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation, relaxation techniques and many other treatments may be combined to effectively stop or control phantom limb pain.

If you have chronic phantom limb pain, there are options to provide relief and improve your quality of life. Contact one of our clinics in the Atlanta area to schedule a consultation with one of our pain specialists. Learn more about controlling or ending your chronic phantom pain today.