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Stump Pain

WHAT IS IT AND HOW IS IT TREATED?

man with stump pain

Stump pain, also known as post-amputation pain, is common in people who have had an amputation of an extremity. Many amputees will only have this type of pain shortly after surgery, but it fades during the healing process. Unfortunately for others, the pain becomes chronic and is referred to as post-amputation or “stump” pain.

 

 

Stump pain is caused when there is a physical cause, resulting from:

  • Post-operative infection
  • Poor blood supply to the limb
  • Bone or soft tissue problems
  • Nerve damage
  • Neuroma

Symptoms

The symptoms of residual limb pain are usually described as moderate and include sensations such as:

  • Pressing
  • Squeezing
  • Throbbing
  • Stabbing
  • Burning
  • Uncontrolled movements

Treatment

Your neurosurgeon will perform a physical exam as well as employ imaging to determine if stump pain is the correct diagnosis and if there is an underlying cause. He then can recommend the best pathway toward relieving symptoms and pain.

 

Treatments for stump pain include:

  • Pain medications
  • Antidepressants
  • Anticonvulsants
  • Nerve blocks
  • Neuromodulation
  • Resection of neuroma

Contact us today for an appointment!