A Non-invasive Intervention (BreEStim) for Management of Phantom Limb Pain (PLP) After Limb Amputation (Experiment 1)

A Non-invasive Intervention (BreEStim) for Management of Phantom Limb Pain (PLP) After Limb Amputation

The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of innovative intervention of breathing controlled electrical stimulation (BreEStim) and conventional electrical stimulation (EStim) in management of neuropathic phantom limb pain in patients after limb amputation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• has phantom limb pain (PLP) after amputation of one limb, upper or lower limb;
• has chronic pain, >3 months;
• is stable on oral pain medications at least two weeks. (patients are allowed to continue their pain medications, i.e., no change in pain medications.)

Exclusion Criteria:

• currently adjusting oral pain medications for their PLP;
• has pain, but not PLP (e.g., from inflammation at the incision wound of the residual limb);
• has a pacemaker, or other metal and/or implanted devices;
• has cognitive impairment from brain injury or are not able to follow commands, or to give consent;
• has amputation in multiple limbs;
• have asthma or other pulmonary diseases;
• are not medically stable;
• have preexisting psychiatric disorders;
• alcohol or drug abuse;
• have a history of seizures/Epilepsy, or taking benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants.