12/05/2025
๐According to the NIH, each year in the U.S., 30,000 to 40,000 amputations occur, with nearly 80% of amputees reporting phantom limb painโa sensation of pain or discomfort in a limb that is no longer present. This differs from residual limb pain, which originates from the actual amputation site. Phantom pain can feel tingly, hot or cold, or as if the missing limb is still moving .
๐คThe causes are not fully understood, but studies are currently being done to try to better understand this condition which can greatly affect a person's day-to-day activities.
โTreatments often involve medications (like NSAIDs, prescription pain relievers, or anticonvulsants) as well as non-drug therapies like TENS, mirror therapy, or spinal cord stimulation. Due to its complexity, phantom limb pain is best managed by a multidisciplinary team.
๐ซIf you suffer from phantom pain, consult your surgeon or primary care for possible treatment options.