Treatment
To relieve your phantom pain can be difficult finding a treatment. Doctors usually begin with medications and then may add noninvasive therapies, such as acupuncture or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). More invasive options include injections or implanted devices. Only as a last resort surgery can be done. Treatments on the horizon may use virtual reality goggles or mirror boxes to fool the brain into believing the amputated limb is still under its control.
Medications
Some drugs designed to treat other problems have been helpful in relieving nerve pain although there are no medications specifically for phantom pain,. Keep in mind that no single drug works for everyone, and not everyone benefits from medications. You may need to try several different drugs to find one that works for you.
Antidepressants. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline or nortriptyline, often can relieve the pain caused by damaged nerves. They work by modifying chemical messengers that relay pain signals. Antidepressants also may help you sleep, which can make you feel better.
Anticonvulsants. Epilepsy drugs — such as gabapentin (Neurontin) and carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol) are often used to treat nerve pain. They work by quieting damaged nerves to slow or prevent uncontrolled pain signals. Studies have shown mixed results, however, regarding their effectiveness in reducing phantom pain.
Narcotics. Opioid medications, such as codeine and morphine, may be an option for some people. Taken in appropriate doses under your doctor’s direction, they may help control phantom pain. However, you may not be able to take them if you have a history of substance abuse. Even if you don’t have a history of substance abuse, these drugs can cause many side effects such as constipation or sedation.
