Phantom limb sensation

Abstract

1. Phantom limb pain and sensations are common in amputees. The present paper defines phantom limb pain, stump pain and phantom limb sensation and then gives an overview of the incidence and characteristics of the phenomena. 2. Theories of phantoms are presented, including peripheral, central and supraspinal theories, with particular attention given to Melzack's neuromatrix. 3. Evidence of cortical reorganization following amputation is given and the extent to which cortical reorganization contributes to phantom limb pain is discussed.