Phantom pain (FA) is an important source of chronic pain in the majority of individuals with amputation. Drug treatments for FA are usually not very effective and can cause unwanted side effects. There is increasing evidence of the effectiveness of mind-body therapies for the relief of chronic pain; therefore, the role of mind-body therapies in relieving chronic pain associated with amputation is recognized.
In the study, a literature review focused on mind-body therapies for amputated individuals with FA was conducted. There are studies of hypnosis, imagery, and feedback, including visual mirror therapy, in the literature; Although there are studies on meditation, yoga and tai chi, they are not many. Current findings suggest that a mind-body therapies to FA management are promising and that these modalities, alone or in combination with traditional treatments, can offer temporary or long-term relief.
Researchers are currently studying the potential benefit and mechanisms of action of body-body therapies (including targets to affect cortical remodeling, autonomic nervous system dysregulation, stress management, coping ability, and quality of life) in relation to FA.
Although the reliability of the mentioned mind-body therapies, including yoga, meditation and mirror therapies, is increasing, they are accepted worldwide and their use is becoming more widespread.
"Moura VL, Faurot KR, Gaylord SA, Mann JD, Sill M, Lynch C, Lee MY: Mind-body interventions for treatment of phantom limb pain in persons with amputation. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2012;91:701Y714." https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22286895