Amputation

Phantom limb pain

What is phantom limb pain?

A phantom limb is the sensation that an amputated or missing limb is still attached. Often this can be a painless sensation. For others there can be pain involved ranging from itching and pins and needles to stabbing pains, burning and pressure sensations. For some there can be significant and even lifelong pain involved.

Causes

No one is completely sure but the most popular theory is that the brain “re-wires” after amputation, and, realising that something isn’t right, sends pain messages.

Treatments

Phantom Limb Pain is complex and the right treatment can often be a combination of different types of medication combined with various non-medication treatments. These treatments can include:
  • Acupuncture
  • Massage
  • Mirror box therapy
  • Biofeedback
  • TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)
  • Virtual reality therapy
  • Imagery
  • Music
  • Spinal cord stimulation
There are plenty of options and with our experience and access to pain management expertise we can help you find the right combination for you.

How we can help

Our team of experienced lawyers specialise in amputation claims. They can be complex and challenging. We have successfully pursued claims for damages for many families who have been through similar experiences to you. We know how important it is that the team acting on your behalf will ensure the best outcome for you and your family following the traumatic events you have been through.    

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Frequently Asked Questions

Phantom limb pain is the experience of pain or discomfort in a limb or body part that is no longer there. It is a common condition that occurs after amputation or after a nerve injury. Even though the limb is no longer there, the brain continues to receive signals from the nerves that used to supply that area, leading to the sensation of pain, itching, or pressure in the missing limb.

Phantom limb pain can vary in intensity and duration and can be triggered by different factors such as stress, changes in weather, or even emotional triggers. The pain may feel like stabbing, burning, shooting, or cramping, and can be felt in the missing limb or in the area surrounding it.

A phantom limb compensation claim can be made by an individual who has undergone an amputation or a surgical procedure that has resulted in the loss of a limb or body part, and is experiencing phantom limb pain or other related symptoms.

The eligibility to make a claim may depend on the circumstances surrounding the amputation or surgical procedure, and the level of negligence or malpractice involved. For example, if the amputation was the result of a workplace accident, a medical error, or a defective product, the affected individual may be eligible to make a claim for compensation.

If the claim relates to medical negligence or malpractice, the time limit is usually three years from the date of the injury or from the date when the individual became aware that the injury was caused by negligence or malpractice.

There are some exceptions to these time limits, such as cases involving children or individuals who lack the capacity to make a claim. In such cases, the time limit may be extended.

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