The objective of this study is to develop a virtual rehabilitation system that can be used to effectively treat Phantom Limb Pain (PLP) within the research setting and for at-home use by individuals with upper and lower extremity amputation.
We hypothesize that the system will improve PLP for individuals with upper or lower extremity amputation, as measured through with various outcome measures and questionnaires.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Adults over the age of 18 years old
* Amputation of the upper or lower limb, including amputation of multiple limbs
* English Speaking
* Chronic phantom limb pain (at least 6-months duration)
* Average phantom limb pain intensity of 4 or greater on a 0-10 numerical rating scale
* Average frequency of phantom limb pain episode of at least twice per month.
* Residual limb pain of less than 5 on the Numerical Pain Rating Scale
* Pain medication use stable for \> 1 month
Exclusion Criteria
* Unable to tolerate use of liner or cuff on their residual limb
* Skin irritation/wounds on residual limb that would prevent use of the electrode cuff
* Significant cognitive deficits or visual impairment that would preclude them from giving informed consent or following instructions during the experiments, or the ability to obtain relevant user feedback.
* Non-English speaking
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire
Timeframe: Baseline score and at the post-treatment assessment at the end of the 8-week intervention