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

Orthopade. 2013 Jun;42(6):449-52. doi: 10.1007/s00132-013-2110-4.
[Article in German]

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Amputation Stumps*
  • Amputees*
  • Arm / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pain Measurement / methods*
  • Phantom Limb / diagnosis*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity