Neural Bases of Phantom Pain After Amputation

Experimental Study of the Neural Bases of Phantom Pain After Amputation and Their Modification by Proprioceptive Training: MRI Study of the Brain and Spinal Cord

The amputation of a limb results in chronic pain associated with the lost limb in the majority of patients, which persists over time. Despite a large number of studies conducted in an attempt to elucidate the neural basis of phantom pain, these are still not elucidated and current treatments often fail to relieve patients' pain.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Between 18 and 65 years old
• For the "amputees with phantom pain" group: patients who have been amputated for more than 2 years and have chronic phantom pain
• For the "amputees without phantom pain" group: patients who have been amputated for more than 2 years and do not have chronic phantom pain
• For the "healthy participants" group: healthy participants with no neurological history

Exclusion Criteria:

• Clinically significant pathology (gastrointestinal, renal, hepatic, endocrine, cardiovascular or respiratory)
• Progressive psychiatric or neurological pathology
• On psychotropic medication
• Pregnant or nursing woman
• Inadequate level of French language