What you need to know about phantom limb pain

On Behalf of | Jan 24, 2022 | Personal Injury

A catastrophic car accident can lead to a limb amputation, which may bring up other complications like phantom limb pain. As the name suggests, the pain is felt at the amputation site probably because nerves send conflicting signals to the brain.

The pain can be mild to extreme and affect your everyday life. If you have had a limb amputated, here is what you need to know about this condition.

How common is it?

Surprisingly, phantom limb pain is a fairly common occurrence among amputees several months after amputation. Previously, phantom pain was thought to be a psychiatric illness. While there is still no conclusive medical diagnosis of phantom pain, it has been closely linked to the effects of amputation on the neural transmitters.

The signs to look out for include a burning or tingling sensation, throbbing, itching, and cramping at the amputation site.

What does treatment entail?

Treatment for phantom limb pain revolves around managing the symptoms. Chronic pain can be managed by prescription pain relievers, muscle relaxers, or medication that reduces blood pressure, thus lowering stress on the blood vessels around the amputation site.

Other treatment courses like neurostimulation involve sending electrical impulses to the brain, nerves, and spinal cord to help ease the pain.

The complications of phantom limb pain

Your quality of life may be affected in several ways. For example, you could have severe pain episodes that prevent you from living a normal life. In addition, your sleep schedule may be affected along with your mental well-being. Your finances, too, may take a hit, especially if you need to manage the condition with daily medication.

You may be entitled to compensation for all the pain and suffering occasioned by your amputation, especially if another person’s negligence led to it. Holding the responsible party accountable is your best shot at getting the justice you deserve which is why you should consider taking action as soon as possible.