[Two-point discrimination for phantom pain: effect of a 4-week therapy in an upper arm amputee with phantom pain]

There is evidence that phantom pain is associated with a disrupted organization of the sensory cortex and that this organization can be normalized by training with two-point discrimination (TPD). In this case study a reduction in all three phantom modalities (i.e. phantom pain, phantom feeling and painful phantom sensation) and a reduction in pain level from m= 4.13/10 visual analogue scale (VAS) to m= 0.67/10 (VAS) could be observed in a patient with an upper limb amputation during a test period of 28 days with TPD. The quality of life and performance increased significantly. This can be a promising indication for a better social and work reintegration.