Most of the people who have suffered an amputation has the impression that the amputated part is in still in place and this neurological phenomenon is called " Phantom Limb Syndrome ". The main problems associated with amputation are represented by the limitation of their functional capabilities which cause further complications in the physical , psychological, social , and economical.
The post- amputation pain includes pain in the stump, phantom sensation and phantom limb pain. In the latter the amount of pain and rejection are directly proportional to the value attributed by the subject to the missing part .
There are several types of scales for the assessment of phantom limb pain and alterations resulting from a psychological and functional , such as: the McGill Pain Questionnaire , the LANSS Scale and Barthel Index.
As regards the management of this pain were examined multiple treatments, both pharmacological and alternative , which in recent years have found most effective. The drugs most commonly used include: tricyclic antidepressants , anticonvulsants , opioids and narcotics . Alternative therapies , however, include biofeedback, psychotherapy, and Tecarterapia Mirror Therapy , which is the most specific practice for this type of neuropathic pain.
Many studies have analyzed the various dimensions of this disorder , but there are few publications describing specific interventions or nursing protocols useful to take charge of the subject holistic amputee .
This paper therefore is founded with the aim to raise awareness of this disease and to introduce the nurse , along with all health care providers, the issues related to phantom limb syndrome and techniques that you can take to improve the condition of the sick person . It is an active rehabilitation , both physical and psychological .
