Letter to the Editor: The Supernumerary Phantom Limb and Phantom Limb Pain-Important Facts

Abstract

I read with much interest the article titled 'Atypical supernumerary phantom limb and phantom limb pain in two patients with pontine haemorrhage' by Seung Don Yoo et al. (1). Both the cases reported by the authors were interesting. For the first time, I see the self representation of the supernumerary limb being added to in this article in the form a sketch diagram. These types of sketches depict the actual mental perception of the patient. The authors need to be applauded for such. Phantom limb pain is a challenging condition. Clinicians have outlined the fact the phantom limb pain is difficult to treat in comparison to conventional pain (2). One really wonders if transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can be used to treat such pain. There are past research reports depicting the fact that a single session of repetitive TMS can prove beneficial in relieving the pain (3). One really wonders if the level of education, socio-economic status and age could influence pain. Another fact to ponder is the quality of life in these patients who experience supernumerary phantom limb and phantom limb pain. One can even spell the role of psychiatrists in treating such phantom pain. Overall, it is an interesting article. I really appreciate the honest efforts by the authors and the editor in special for publishing such an interesting article.