What is phantom pain?
Phantom pain refers to painful sensations felt in a part of the body that has been amputated. Although the limb is no longer there, the pain feels very real (and it is!). These sensations can appear as tingling, burning, cramping, electric shocks, or pressure.
This phenomenon affects about 70% of people who have undergone an amputation*. It can appear within days after surgery or months later, varying in frequency and intensity.
Why does phantom pain occur?
For a long time, phantom pain was thought to be purely psychological. Today, science has shown that it actually results from a reorganization of the nervous system.
After an amputation:
- The peripheral nerves that once supplied the amputated area continue to send signals to the brain.
- The brain, which keeps a "map" of the body, continues to perceive the presence of the missing limb.
- This confusion between the physical absence and the persistence of nerve signals creates the painful sensation.
Certain factors can make this pain worse, including:
- significant pain before the amputation;
- poor healing of the surgical site;
- stress, anxiety, or lack of sleep;
- changes in the socket or prosthesis.
How to relieve phantom pain?
Although it can be persistent, phantom pain can be treated through a multidisciplinary approach combining physiotherapy, rehabilitation, psychological support, and sometimes medication.
1. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
The physiotherapist plays an essential role in managing phantom pain. Treatments aim to:
- reduce pain through stimulation of the residual limb (massage, heat, TENS, ultrasound);
- promote mobility and circulation in the affected area;
- assist with prosthesis adaptation;
- retrain the brain to correctly interpret sensory signals.
2. Mirror therapy (motor imagery)
This technique involves placing a mirror to reflect the intact limb, creating the illusion that the amputated limb is still present. By performing symmetrical movements, the brain is "tricked" and reorganizes its body perception, which can help reduce pain.
3. Medical management
In some cases, medications (anticonvulsants, antidepressants, pain relievers) can help modulate the nerve signals responsible for the pain.
4. Psychological support
Phantom pain often has a significant emotional component. Psychological support helps manage stress, anxiety, and adjustment to the new body image.
Taking back control
Living with phantom pain can be unsettling, but it is important to know that effective solutions exist. Physiotherapy, combined with other approaches, helps many amputees regain comfort, independence, and confidence in their bodies.
In summary, phantom pain is a common and very real consequence after an amputation. By better understanding its mechanisms and adopting a personalized approach, it is possible to reduce its intensity and improve quality of life.
*Source: « Post-amputation Pain », edited by International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP)
