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Researcher's name

Joe Bullimore

University

Lancaster University

Supervisor's name

Dr Craig Murray

Project title

Experiencing and coping with phantom limb pain in the early postoperative period following amputation.

Outline of project

This study is aiming to examine how people experience and cope with phantom limb pain (PLP) following amputation. PLP is the perception of the sensation of pain in the missing limb after its removal and research has shown that it is very common in the two-years after amputation. Treatment for PLP is challenging and has been ineffective for many with the condition. As a result, many who live with PLP report negative psychological consequences on their lives. Therapeutic interventions for those with PLP have shown promising results, however, they are infrequently offered as part of rehabilitation and recovery by healthcare teams. Subsequently, many individuals with PLP, as well as their family and friends, are left to cope with the condition without adequate support from healthcare professionals. As a result, more needs to be done to promote, develop and understand the experiences of those with PLP and improve psychological interventions.

This research will examine how individuals experience and cope with PLP in the early post-operative period after a lower limb amputation (the first one-to-two years). The study will aim to recruit between 5-8 participants to take part in the study. Each participant will be interviewed with a set of open-ended questions which will allow them to describe their experiences and how they cope with PLP in a confidential, thorough, and personal way that can help inform and improve psychological interventions and knowledge around the condition.

Contact email

j.bullimore@lancaster.ac.uk

Contact number

07897940537

Deadline for participants to apply

31/10/2025 00:00:00

Proof of ethical approvalw

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