THE PHANTOM LIMB PHENOMENON

The phantom limb experience, described by almost all amputees, can be a profound source of discomfort. The three primary explanations for phantom limbs-peripheral, central, and psychodynamic-are reported and evaluated. Although the causes of phantom limbs are still unclear, phantoms are more likely predicated upon central and peripheral factors in combination, rather than either factor alone. Implications of the phenomenon for patients and families are mentioned.