What are some complications of phantom limb pain?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Complications of phantom limb pain are not numerous since phantom pain itself is a complication of limb amputation. Sometimes neuromas, a type of growth, can develop on the amputated nerves, increasing your pain. You may have trouble sleeping or develop emotional depression or anxiety from your condition, but these conditions can be treated with support groups and a strong social network.

Continue Learning about Pain

For the Best Pain Relief, Give Someone a Hug

Some days, all you need to feel better is a giant hug, and science agrees. Research scientists from the University of Colorado Boulder and the Univers...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Although not very much acute pain is psychological in origin, psychology can have a large impact on ...

What's your body trying to tell you?

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Pain

Pain is your body telling you that you have hurt it. This is a good thing, important when you are injured. It can also help diagnose problems with your body. Sometimes pain continues long after it's necessary. Amputees report phantom pain in the legs or arms they no longer have. There are different kinds of pain, and describing the type is useful in diagnosis: recurring, constant, steady, knife-like, radiating, sharp, dull. Medicines that dull pain are analgesics. Those that kill all feeling are anesthetics.

Learn More