Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 12, 2026
Real-time Video Projection in an MRI for Characterization of Neural Correlates Associated with Mirror Therapy for Phantom Limb Pain
Published on: April 20, 2019
The treatment of phantom limb pain using immersive virtual reality: three case studies
Craig D Murray1, Stephen Pettifer, Toby Howard
1School of Psychological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK. craig.murray-2@manchester.ac.uk
Purpose:
This paper describes the design and implementation of a case study based investigation using immersive virtual reality as a treatment for phantom limb pain.
Method:
Three participants who experienced phantom limb pain (two with an upper-limb amputation, and one with a lower-limb amputation) took part in between 2 and 5 immersive virtual reality (IVR) sessions over a 3-week period. The movements of participants' anatomical limbs were transposed into the movements of a virtual limb, presented in the phenomenal space of their phantom limb.
Results:
Preliminary qualitative findings are reported here to assess proof of principle for this IVR equipment. All participants reported the transferal of sensations into the muscles and joints of the phantom limb, and all participants reported a decrease in phantom pain during at least one of the sessions.
Conclusion:
The authors suggest the need for further research using control trials.
