Phantom Limb Pain: A Case Study

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Phantom limb pain (PLP) is a type of neuropathic pain that is present in patients that have (either by accident or surgical intervention) had a limb or part of a limb removed. Such removal of a limb can lead to chronic significant pain, and it is estimated that 80% or amputees experience this (Rauk et al., 2014). Following an amputation, it is common to have PLP sensation. The exact cause of PLP is not known, however multiple factors are suggested such as neuromas, increased nerve excitability, peripheral factors, myofascial trigger points and central nervous system changes (Kern et al., 2012). The pain can be incapacitating, decreasing quality of life, increasing chances of depression, have negative impacts on relationships and the ability

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