Psychological Correction of Phantom Limb Pain after Traumatic Amputation in Patients - Soldiers (Participating in a Special Military Operation)

Relevance. Traumatic amputations significantly reduce patients’ quality of life, lead to disability and can cause depression [12]. In 40 % 85 % of cases, amputation is accompanied by phantom pain syndrome [1]. A review of the literature shows that psychological methods are currently insufficiently studied and underrepresented in the comprehensive treatment of phantom pain syndrome. However, various sources indicate that psychological factors play a crucial role in the development of this condition in patients.

Intention. To develop a recommendation for psychological prevention of phantom pain syndrome. Research objectives: 1. To evaluate the level of phantom limb pain severity in patients after limb amputation; 2. To study the peculiarities of psycho-emotional state of patients with phantom pain syndrome after limb amputation; 3. To carry out psychocorrection activities, dividing the sample of patients into three groups depending on the method: mirror therapy, neuromuscular relaxation, aromatherapy; 4. To carry out a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of psychological correction methods in three groups of patients.

Object of the study. Soldiers participants of special military operation with phantom pain syndrome after traumatic amputation.

Results. The obtained data indicate that all types of proposed psychocorrective measures (mirror therapy, neuromuscular relaxation and aromatherapy) significantly reduce the level of phantom pain syndrome severity. Also in the group of patients positively responding to aromatherapy were found significantly more pronounced features of hysterical and neurasthenic disorders, as well as a higher level of internal tension and anxiety. Based on the results obtained, recommendations for psychocorrective measures were described.