Phantom Pain: What Treatments are Most Effective for Amputees

After an amputation, phantom limb or extremity pain could have a considerable impact on your quality of life. The pain from a body part that you no longer have could frustrate you and make it difficult to concentrate on recovery and healing. Try these four treatments to manage your pain and discomfort from phantom pains.

Pain Relievers and Muscle Relaxants

In the first few weeks following an amputation, your physician may recommend the use of pain relievers. These over-the-counter or prescription medications that relax muscles help to calm the irritated nerves that are sending pain signals to your brain. Once the initial pain and swelling are gone, calming the irritated nerves may help to minimize your pain to a manageable level.

Alternative Medicine

Many amputees find relief of phantom pain through alternative medicine. This type of treatment can be used in conjunction with Western medicine. Consider acupuncture as a method of relief from pain and irritated nerves. Chiropractic care may also help to get your body realigned as you get used to life with a missing limb. Physical therapy could also help with phantom pain. Just let your primary care physician know that you are augmenting medical care with alternative methods.

Deep Tissue Massage

Your muscles, tendons and ligaments may be swollen and irritated for a while after an amputation. Deep tissue massage helps to relax your soft tissues. It can also provide you with a release of tension. The massage therapist may focus on your specific areas of pain. For example, if your leg was amputated, a lower back massage can help to calm the nerves and tissues that used to service the length of your leg.

Stress-relief Exercises

In some cases, phantom pain is an expression of your brain. Your brain could be overactive with the stress of an amputation. Consider trying one or more stress-relief methods such as yoga, deep breathing, or stretching. Professionals, like those at The Pain Management Group, know that you should also be sure to eat a nutritious diet and get enough sleep. Set aside some time to get outdoors and breathe in the fresh air and take in the natural scenery.

An amputation is a shock to your entire body. The nerves take some time to heal, as do the connective tissues that used to extend into the area that was amputated. Stress, depression and lack of sleep can worsen your pain. If your symptoms persist or worsen after a few months of trying these medical and natural treatments for phantom pain, visit your physician.