A sensation of discomfort at the site of a missing limb. Pain in a phantom limb is a common phenomenon after an amputation. The majority of amputations in the United States take place as a result of circulation problems caused by diabetes. Phautom pain usually begins within 24 hours following amputation. In some people, the pain is persistent and severe. Treatment is difficult. However, helpful measures include prosthetics that fit well, early rehabilitation, and addressing the emotional aspects of amputation.
The sensation of pain felt in the nerve distribution of a body part that has been amputated. Phantom pain can lead to difficulties in prosthetic training.
Pain in an amputated limb caused by changes in the brain and spinal cord.
The sensation of a limb’s continued existence (accompanied by persistent pain) despite its surgical removal or amputation.
The feeling that a limb is still there even after it has been surgically removed is known as “phantom limb sensation.” This phenomenon happens because the brain interprets signals from the nerves in the residual stump as if they were originating from the missing limb.