As a certified and licensed prosthetist now for 34 years, I must tell you I have seen situations of pain related problems more than I would like to say. Each one is different but the results are somewhat the same, a very difficult life! (Very sad)
Here is my humble advice if you are living with a painful residual limb: You must find the best doctors in your area! There are many types of pain medications out now that work differently from each other and you must find a doctor that will work with you, trying different ones until you find one that does help. The goal would be to possibly bring your pain levels down from a 10 to a 2. The best outcome would be to find a doctor that could help you with a type of surgery intervention, which is why you need to find a doctor with experience with this type of situation.
If surgery is an option than you should consider it as a hope to get off the pain medication! No one wants more surgery, but if they can guarantee you a high probability that you will have a pain free residual limb, then your decision should become easier. Get on the phone and call local hospital social workers to get started with your search, rehab centers as well. Amputee support groups in your local area could be of great help as someone in your community may have successfully gone through a similar experience with pain and share their story with you providing you with good information and best of all, support!
Some anesthesiology doctors are very experienced in the area of pain management but the best doctors for us are in my opinion - are called Physiatrist or doctor of physical medicine. They are trained extensively in the care for amputees especially post amputee surgery . Get a good one and experiment on medication until you get the pain manageable. Be as patient as you possible can as it may take several office visits until you hit on the best medication and dosage for you. (I can remember one patient of mine that was so happy because for the first time in 8 years he slept through the night without waking up once, he was very happy!)
The physiatrist can refer you to other medical specialists if they feel they may be of good help, and also a good surgeon if they feel surgery is an option to achieving a pain free life for you. Find the best doctors, not easy but you can find them in your area.
I should add that a poor fitting prosthesis, if you’re using one, will definitely not help your situation. Make sure it is fitting you properly so it's not contributing to your pain by possibly causing swelling and swelling contributes to pain.
I wish you the best, stay strong and get some good help and professional advice, remember professional advice, it is out there! ENJOY YOUR LIFE TO THE FULLEST!
Kevin S. Garrison C.P., L.P & Author
http://www.garrisonop.com/
Garrison's Orthotic & Prosthetic Clinic
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