Overview
What is phantom limb pain?
Phantom limb pain is pain felt in a part of the body that has been amputated. The brain still sends signals to the nerves that once served the missing limb.
How common is it?
It affects up to 80% of people who’ve had a limb amputated.
What are the symptoms of phantom limb pain?
- Burning, stabbing, or cramping sensations
- Tingling or itching
- Pain that comes and goes
What causes phantom limb pain?
It’s caused by the brain and spinal cord continuing to send pain signals after amputation. Emotional stress may worsen symptoms.
What are the risk factors?
- Amputation due to trauma
- Poor pain control after surgery
- Preexisting nerve pain
When does it usually start?
It often begins soon after amputation, though it can develop weeks or months later.