Phantom Limb, Phantom Pain and Stump Pain (Part II)

Abstract

Sensations of pain in that projection of the Body Image which is phantom limbs constitute are abnormal atate. Types I and II phantom limbs are useful as feedback mechanisms when unaccompanied by pain; when pain exists, it is felt to indicate the patient's unresolved desire for his lost limbs. It is necessary to make a careful analysis of the factors behind phantom-limb pain (livelihood, anxieties, social circumstances, suitability of prosthesis, etc.) and to devise appropriate means of resolving them. Phantom limb, phantom pain and stump pain are mutually related to their appearance, and the phantom pain has some psychosomatic factors. Phantom pain provides a method of interpersonal communication of medical staffs, and it is important to detect, analize, and discuss factors behind the pain in order to treat it properly. There are several treatment approaches known such as psychotherapy, hipnotherapy, antidepressant drugs and so on.