The phantom limb is a continuing sensation of an amputated body part. These sensations may only occur if the relevant portion of the somatosensory cortex recognizes and is responsive to alternative inputs. The mirror therapy can apparently used to relieve the pain that people experience because it tricks their brain into thinking that the amputated leg or arm is actually the one doing the movements as well. I would think it would be because of the current sensations are binding with the memories of previous experiences. The synapse that used to receive input from the new amputated part become vacant is what makes the phantom limb sensation. Axons representing another part of the body take over those synapses.
I happened to find a video that demonstrated this kind of therapy that is being done on soldier who has had their leg amputated.
The mirror therapy for phantom limb pain (PLP) was really cool to learn about. It's amazing what the mind can accomplish over the matter of the situation. I really wonder what causes them to feel pain in the limb that is no longer there. It could be a multitude of things, though there is evidence to support that pathological cortical reorganization after amputation may be the underlying correlate for PLP. Very interesting and eye-opening, Krystal! Thanks! :)
ReplyDeleteI became quite fascinated when i read about Phantom limbs & pain in a textbook for my Physiological Psychology class. It's amazing what our brains are capable of doing. I found it quite interesting how mirror therapy works, because its our brains who are getting tricked to attempt to subdue pain in a limb that no longer is there. Two aspects of this get me thinking. One like the comment above me is what causes the pain in a limb that has ceased to exist? It's not there, so why do people feel pain? Secondly, If our brain is capable of doing such amazing things why is it necessary to TRICK the brain?
ReplyDeleteAll in all GREAT BLOG! very informative and GREAT video. :)
i had never heard of phantom limbs before. it was interesting to learn how they cope with the loss of an amputation. i cant imagine how hard it must be to be put in that situation. it must be difficult not only for them but also for their loved one. seeing someone go though this must be a huge life changing experience.
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