Phantom pain is a common and debilitating symptom that can occurs, yet is not linked to a single event or injury. Commonly, it’s seen in patients even after they have been declared free of cancer. It’s estimated that up to 80% of the population experiences phantom pain, but there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Treatment typically depends on the individual’s symptoms and preferences. Some people may prefer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), while others may require prescription medications or surgery.
Common Symptoms
Common symptoms of phantom pain include:
- Shooting, twisting, or prickly pain
- Incessant pain that comes and goes
- Itching
- Vibration
- Pressure
Treatment options for Phantom Pain:
When people reach a certain age, their bodies tend to develop several complications. This can manifest as chronic conditions and even phantom pain, which is felt but cannot be attributed to an actual injury or medical condition. Several treatments are available, but the best way to treat them depends on the individual. Surgery may fix the underlying problem for some people, while medications and other treatments may help others.
What Are the Causes?
Many different situations and conditions contribute to the discomfort of symptoms caused. It is mostly attributed to a mix up in nervous system signals between the brain and the spinal cord. It may appear from nerve damage. Some factors that can cause nerve damage include:
- Trauma
- Spinal injury
- Whiplash
This condition can occur after an amputation, where the person experiences pain in the missing limb. The brain typically senses that a body part is missing as there appears to be an unnatural link between the brain and the missing limb. Another possible explanation of phantom pain in amputees is a remapping of the nervous system’s sensory circuit to another part of the body.
Recently however, scientists have discovered a new cause of this syndrome called Central Nervous System Activation Disorder (CNSAD), and it is entirely different from the form of PLP that occurs with amputation.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Phantom Pain
While surgery is often used as a rememdy, several non-surgical treatments can be effective. These treatments include medications, therapies such as acupuncture and electrical stimulation, and psychological interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Conclusion
There are many ways to treat phantom pain in elderly people. Some treatments include surgery, physical therapy, acupuncture, and antidepressants. Other forms of treatment include interventional therapies to stimulate the brain. For more information about treatment options for elderly people, contact us today. Contact us using the form below: