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Phantom pain and phantom sensations in upper limb amputees: an epidemiological study
Carolien M Kooijman1, Pieter U Dijkstra, Jan H B Geertzen
1Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands Northern Centre for Health Care Research, University Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands Pain Centre, University Hospital Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands Orthopaedic Workshop O.I.M., Haren, The Netherlands.
Pain
|June 23, 2000
Summary
Phantom pain affects over half of upper limb amputees, causing significant suffering. Few receive medical treatment, highlighting a need for better management strategies for this common condition.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Phantom limb pain is a prevalent issue following amputation, with varied reported prevalence rates.
- Factors like pre-amputation pain, gender, and time since amputation have been implicated but require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of phantom pain and phantom sensations in Dutch upper limb amputees.
- To investigate factors associated with phantom pain and sensations.
- To explore the relationship between phantom pain, phantom sensations, and prosthesis use.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was administered to 124 upper limb amputees in The Netherlands.
- Data collected included amputation details, pain characteristics, sensation types, treatment received, and prosthesis use.
- The response rate was 80%.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of phantom pain was 51%, phantom sensations 76%, and stump pain 49%.
- A significant association was found between phantom pain and phantom sensations (RR 11.3) and phantom pain and stump pain (RR 1.9).
- 48% experienced phantom pain multiple times daily, and 64% reported moderate to severe suffering; only four patients received medical treatment.
Conclusions:
- Phantom pain is a common and distressing condition for upper limb amputees.
- Strong associations exist between phantom pain, phantom sensations, and stump pain.
- Current medical treatment for phantom pain is minimal, indicating a gap in care and a need for further research into contributing factors and effective interventions.