Phantom Pain Relief Without Medication

Phantom pain refers to a sensation or pain in the absent limb, as if it were intact. Phantom limb pain can range from a tingling sensation to cramping, shooting, burning, or crushing pain. The exact causes of and explanations for phantom pain are a subject of much debate.

Phantom pain differs greatly between patients, so what relieves pain for one person, may not work for another. If you are experiencing phantom pain, you may want to try some of the methods listed below. Be sure to check with your doctor if you are unable to relieve your pain with any of these techniques, or if the pain is extremely frequent and/or intense.

• Wrap your residual limb in a warm, soft fabric, such as a towel. The warmth may help increase circulation (poor circulation is thought to be one cause of phantom pain).
• Mentally exercise the absent limb in the area that is painful.
• Gently massage or pat the limb to help increase the circulation
• Tighten the muscles in the residual limb, then release them slowly.
• Put an ace wrap or shrinker on. If you have your prosthesis, put it on and take a short walk.
• If you have pain with the prosthesis on, take it and the prosthetic sock off for a few minutes. Sometimes the residual limb is being pinched and the pressure can be relieved simply by adjusting the prosthesis.
• Change positions. If you are seated, move around in your chair or stand up, letting the blood-flow to your limb increase.
• Soak in a warm bath, hot tub, or whirlpool, or use a massaging showerhead on your residual limb.
• Massage the residual limb with your hands, or find someone to massage it for you while you relax your entire body.
• Keep a diary or journal of the pain, noting the severity as well as any possible activities or circumstances that may have caused the pain. This may help you, or your doctor, identify recurring causes as well as prevent future instances.
• Wrap your residual limb in a heating pad, being careful not to leave it on for an excessive amount of time.