Work

The home-based mirror therapy in the reduction of phantom limb pain in unilateral below-knee amputees

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Objectives: Phantom limb pain (PLP) is a common issue for amputees, leading to various long-term challenges. Mirror therapy, a low-risk and cost-effective treatment, can be done at home. This study evaluates the effect of home-based mirror therapy on PLP in unilateral below-knee amputees. Materials and Methods: The study included 16 male participants, aged 18 and above. They were randomly assigned to either the mirror therapy group or the control group (prosthesis use). The mirror therapy group received a single training session (15–30 min). Then, they did exercises at home for at least 15 min a day for four weeks. They also had to use their prosthesis for at least 3 h daily. Weekly phone or online check-ins recorded pain levels. Pain was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Results: Participants had a mean age of 45.12 years, and initial VAS pain scores ranged from 3 to 10. After 4 weeks, the mirror therapy group showed a 37.5% reduction in pain (P < 0.05). The control group did not experience a significant pain change (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Mirror therapy is a promising option for managing PLP. It supports the benefits of telehealth and home-based exercises, reducing the need for in-person consultations.

Source: Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice

DOI: 10.25259/jnrp_70_2024

Authors: Sadra Shariaty, Alireza Taheri

Institution: Isfahan University of Medical Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Pain Management and Treatment

Subfield: Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $125