Acupuncture for the Treatment of Phantom Limb and Residual Limb Pain After Amputation

Acupuncture for Post Amputation Limb Pain: A Pilot Study

The purpose of this study is to identify the best treatment sequence and combination of acupuncture points for the treatment of phantom limb or residual limb pain in the traumatic/surgical amputee.

The purpose of this pilot study is to identify the optimum combination of acupuncture points and treatment sequence in the treatment of post amputation limb pain in terms of the change in Phantom Limb Pain (PLP) and/or Residual Limb Pain (RLP) as measured by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the McGill Short Form Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ). Further, any side effects associated with the acupuncture treatment regimens, time requirements, and patient compliance with the treatment regimens will be estimated.

Study participants will be randomized to one of three acupuncture treatments: Chinese Scalp Acupuncture, French Auricular Acupuncture, or a combination of both.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Amputees with traumatic/surgical amputation of a limb (greater than fingers or toes) secondary to trauma or peripheral vascular disease
• Amputees who have been cleared to begin prosthetic fitting
• Phantom and/or residual limb pain reported must be >/= 3/10
• Active duty military or dependent eligible for military benefit >/=18 years old

Exclusion Criteria:

• Congenital limb absence
• Pregnancy
• Any skin changes on the ear or scalp that would preclude placement of acupuncture needles
• Patients intubated and unable to give consent
• Patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) diagnosed as greater than mild