What is phantom limb sensation?

Phantom limb sensation refers to the phenomenon where individuals perceive that a missing limb is still present. This sensation can include feelings such as warmth, cold, itchiness, or even pain in areas where the limb would have been. These perceptions are thought to result from the brain's neural pathways that were previously used to process sensory information from the missing limb. This response often occurs following an amputation, highlighting the brain's adaptability and the complexities of sensory perception.

The other options describe different experiences that individuals may encounter after limb loss but do not encompass the definition of phantom limb sensation. Discomfort in a prosthetic refers to issues directly related to wearing and using a prosthetic device, while increased pain in the residual limb is a different condition often called residual limb pain. Awareness of a prosthetic's limitations pertains to a user’s understanding of what their device can or cannot do, which does not relate to the sensory experience associated with missing limbs.