Sue Lacey, resident counsellor and psychotherapist at LPC tells us why it's important to speak about your phantom pain symptoms for your own peace of mind. 

Phantom limb pain (PLP) refers to ongoing painful sensations that seem to be coming from the part of the limb that is no longer there. The limb is gone, but the pain feels real. The onset of this pain most often occurs soon after surgery. It can feel like a variety of things, including burning, twisting, itching or pressure. It is often felt in fingers or toes. It is believed that nearly 80 percent of the amputee population worldwide has experienced this kind of pain. The length of time this pain lasts is different for everyone and can last from seconds, minutes or even hours. For most people, PLP diminishes in both frequency and duration during the first six months, but many continue to experience some level of these sensations for years.

What Causes Phantom Limb Pain?
Unlike pain that is caused by trauma directly to a limb, it is believed PLP is caused by mixed signals from your brain or spinal cord. The treatment for this pain is therefore different to other pain and involves trying to change the signals from your brain or spinal cord. As with any other kind of pain, you may find that certain activities or conditions will trigger PLP. Try and notice what triggers an episode of PLP for you. Some triggers can be avoided whilst others will require understanding and treatment accordingly. 

Talking Therapy 
People are often reluctant to tell anyone that they are experiencing PLP or phantom limb sensations, for fear that they will be considered “crazy.” Talking Therapy can therefore help since it allows you to talk to someone impartial about how you feel without judgment or being told what you should do. As a counsellor I will offer you support and encouragement so together we can make some sense out of what is going on for you. This helps you take back some control over how you feel when often you may feel life is out of your control and overwhelming. Counselling also helps you gain understanding about how you are coping and whether this is helping you and what alternative choices may be available. This way you can ensure you take the best care of yourself. 

Please get in touch with Sue at the LPC if you are experiencing phantom limb pain.