How does the mirror box relieve phantom limb pain?
Mirror therapy is a type of therapy that uses vision to treat the pain that people with amputated limbs sometimes feel in their missing limbs. Mirror therapy does this by tricking the brain: it gives the illusion that the missing limb is moving, as the person looks at the real, remaining limb in a mirror.
Why does mirror box relieve pain?
Mirror therapy works by essentially “tricking the brain” out of pain. Because pain signals are processed in the brain, we can change the brain “input” and get different “output” in terms of pain. When mirror therapy is practiced, the brain receives information that both limbs are intact and functional.
What is the principle behind the mirror box therapy?
The theory behind mirror therapy is that positive visual feedback will encourage neuroplastic change, leading to a more swift recovery for survivors. A mirror box can be purchased, or made for those with a preference for DIY. Another rehabilitation technique that is based on similar science is visualization.
How do I get rid of phantom pains?
Medications used in the treatment of phantom pain include:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve) might relieve phantom pain.
- Antidepressants.
- Anticonvulsants.
- Narcotics.
- N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists.
Does phantom pain eventually go away?
Phantom pain does eventually go away with time. Many people find their pain has decreased by about 75 percent or more within two years after amputation surgery. If it does return, talk to your doctor. There may be an underlying problem — such as a neuroma (nerve overgrowth) — triggering the sensation.
What is the goal of mirror therapy?
Mirror therapy uses a mirror to create the illusion that the arm or leg affected by the stroke is moving. After a stroke, mirror therapy can improve movement in affected upper or lower limbs and activities of daily living, and appears useful as a supplement to other stroke rehabilitation activities.
What is sham PT?
An inactive treatment or procedure that is intended to mimic as closely as possible a therapy in a clinical trial. Also called placebo therapy.