Phantom Pain / Stump Pain
Targeted Cryoneurolysis for Post-Amputation Nerve Pain and Sensations
What Is It?
Phantom limb pain and stump pain are chronic conditions experienced by individuals following amputation. Although the affected limb is no longer present, the brain continues to interpret nerve signals from the missing area as pain, burning, itching, or tingling. These sensations may be constant, intermittent, or triggered by touch, stress, or temperature changes.
- Phantom pain: Painful sensations that seem to originate from the missing limb
- Stump pain: Pain located at the site of amputation or surgical incision
Both forms of pain can be debilitating, interfering with sleep, mobility, prosthetic use, and quality of life.
Common Causes
Phantom and stump pain are believed to result from a combination of:
- Neuroma formation: Abnormal nerve regrowth at the amputation site
- Central sensitization: Brain and spinal cord changes that amplify pain perception
- Residual limb trauma: Scar tissue, inflammation, or mechanical irritation
- Psychological stressors: Emotional factors can influence pain intensity
How Cryoneurolysis Helps
Barcelona Cryo Center offers ultrasound-guided cryoneurolysis to target the nerve endings at the amputation site, especially when neuromas are present. By safely applying cold therapy to the overactive sensory nerves, cryoneurolysis can significantly reduce both stump pain and phantom sensations.
Key Benefits:
- Non-destructive: No cutting or removal of tissue required
- Minimally invasive: Outpatient procedure performed through a small skin puncture
- Precise targeting: Nerves contributing to phantom or stump pain can be localized via ultrasound
- Repeatable: May be repeated if symptoms recur
- Improves prosthetic tolerance: Pain reduction can support better mobility and function
Ideal Candidates
You may benefit from cryoneurolysis if you:
- Experience persistent pain at or near an amputation site
- Feel phantom sensations (burning, electric, or stabbing) in a missing limb
- Have difficulty wearing a prosthesis due to nerve sensitivity
- Prefer a non-surgical, drug-free option for long-term relief
Relief After Amputation Is Possible
Living with phantom or stump pain can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Cryoneurolysis provides a focused, minimally invasive option to calm overactive nerves and restore comfort — helping patients move forward with renewed confidence and control.
Book your consultation with Barcelona Cryo Center today.
Postoperative & Post-Traumatic Pain Conditions We Treat
Cryoneurolysis may offer relief for the following forms of chronic pain after surgery or trauma:
Post-thoracotomy Pain
Learn MorePersistent nerve-related pain after thoracic surgery, often involving intercostal nerve injury.
Pain After Rib Fractures
Learn MoreChronic or subacute pain due to intercostal nerve irritation or healing-related mechanical compression.
Neuromas After Surgery
Learn MoreAbnormal nerve regrowth causing sharp or burning pain at previous surgical sites (e.g., amputation, mastectomy, abdominal wall).
Phantom Pain / Stump Pain
Learn MorePain sensations from a missing limb or body part (phantom) or the residual limb itself (stump), often due to nerve dysfunction or neuroma formation.
Pain After Mastectomy (Breast Cancer Surgery)
Learn MorePersistent nerve pain, burning, or sensitivity in the chest wall or underarm area following breast surgery, often related to intercostal or intercostobrachial nerve irritation.
Ready to Feel Relief?
Explore the individual conditions listed above or book a consultation today to discuss whether cryoneurolysis is right for you.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
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Clinic information
Medical Tuset Barcelona
C/ Tuset 23-25, entresuelo08006 Barcelona
Opening hours
Tuesday: 9:00 to 14:00
Other days and times: by appointment