Phantom Limb pain may be reduced by simple mirror treatment
Finally - what may be a
breakthrough.
Phantom limb pain occurs in at least 90% of limb
amputees according to the research. Jack W. Tsao, M.D., conducted a
sham-controlled trial using mirror and imagery therapy in patients who have
had a foot or leg amputated.
Twenty-two patients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. were assigned to one of three groups: one that viewed a reflective image of themselves in a mirror (mirror group); one that viewed a covered mirror; and one that was trained in mental visualization.
Eighteen patients completed the study with six in each group, and after one month of treatment 100% of the members in the mirror group reported less phantom pain - while only 17% reported a pain decrease and 50% reported worsening pain in the covered mirror group - and 67% reported worsening pain in the mental visualization group.
These doctors have an unlimited supply of patients. They work with veterans and members of our armed forces. Regardless, the results of the study within this small group are nothing short of astounding.
Twenty-two patients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. were assigned to one of three groups: one that viewed a reflective image of themselves in a mirror (mirror group); one that viewed a covered mirror; and one that was trained in mental visualization.
Eighteen patients completed the study with six in each group, and after one month of treatment 100% of the members in the mirror group reported less phantom pain - while only 17% reported a pain decrease and 50% reported worsening pain in the covered mirror group - and 67% reported worsening pain in the mental visualization group.
These doctors have an unlimited supply of patients. They work with veterans and members of our armed forces. Regardless, the results of the study within this small group are nothing short of astounding.
Posted: Sun - November 25, 2007 at 07:46 AM