Understanding Phantom Limb Syndrome

Authors: Hannah Powers, Laura Skinner

SUNY Campus: SUNY Cobleskill

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: UU 108

Presentation #: 87

Timeslot: Session D 3:00-4:00 PM

Abstract: Phantom Limb Syndrome is a chronic condition that occurs after limb amputation, where the individuals experience sensations in a limb that is no longer physically present. These sensations can range from tingling and itching to severe pain, and their cause is still a topic of ongoing research. This project strives to explore the underlying causes of phantom limb pain, including the brain’s ability to adapt to new situations (in this case limb loss), spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system, as well as the psychological factors that may contribute to the experience of phantom sensations. Additionally, the effectiveness of current therapies such as mirror therapy and virtual reality interventions that are used to alleviating phantom limb pain are investigated. These therapeutic investigations also include the role of prosthetics in managing phantom limb pain. In addition to this qualitative descriptive study, laboratory physiology monitoring equipment are used to explore real-time neuromuscular responses to initiated voluntary movements. These activities are ultimately related back to the understanding of electrical signals and their potential relation to phantom limb sensations. The goal of this investigation is to educate the general population about phantom limb syndrome and its complicated manifestations that may not be evident upon meeting an individual that has lost a limb.