Understanding Phantom Pain

Pain sometimes occurs where a limb has been amputated. This pain is called phantom pain, or ghost pain, and should not be confused with actual pain in the remaining part of the limb. Phantom pain happens when the nerves at the site of the amputation continue to send messages to the brain. The brain will often retain the memory of pain as well as memories of other sensations. Regardless of the message that the nerves are actually sending to the brain, it will interpret the messages as pain, even though the limb is no longer there. Sensations other than pain have been reported by patients as well and may include feelings such as itching, tingling, cramping, heat and cold, or any other sensation that the limb actually felt prior to amputation. While it is impossible for the amputated limb to actually 'feel' anything, these sensations are quite real and, at times, may be debilitating to the amputee.

Phantom pain treatment is difficult at best. Rarely though, does it prove to be impossible to treat. Successful treatment is usually based on the level of the pain being experienced by the patient. Occasionally, several treatments must be used together to produce positive results. These treatments may include, but are not be limited to; medication, massage, and sometimes, surgery. Some of the recommended medications used are; beta-blockers and sodium channel blockers, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, neuroleptics; and mild to moderate pain relievers. Massage therapy, learning relaxation techniques, biofeedback to relieve tension in the muscles and heat application have also proved successful in reducing phantom pain. More drastic measures for more severe pain would be surgery to remove scarred tissue and some nerve endings that are entangled in the scarred tissue from the affected area.

Tooth extraction is also prone to phantom pain. Phantom pain from tooth extraction would occur at the extraction site, or in the empty socket. Successful treatment for tooth extraction phantom pain would include pain relievers, either over the counter or prescription, and the application of heat packs.

Phantom pain usually decreases or sometimes even completely diminishes within a few months of the amputation. The prognosis for phantom pain that lasts more than six months, however, is poor.

As always, be sure to check with your doctor, dentist, pharmacist or healthcare provider to discuss phantom pain or before attempting any of these suggestions as this is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used as actual medical advice.