Phantom Sensations°
Redesigning post-amputation rehabilitation
“Can redesigning post-amputation rehabilitation tools and systems help prevent the manifestation of phantom limb pain?”
Phantom limb pain (PLP) is the sensation created by the brain following the misinterpretation of nerve signals from the stump. It is where our physical biology and intangible psychology overlap, challenging conventional understandings of the body and its capabilities. Once the phantom pain has begun it is very difficult to avoid.
Phantom Sensations° places emphasis on the post-amputation rehabilitation phase to help prevent PLP from occurring. It proposes a pre-emptive approach to the issue, with the strategy to enable a better and stronger link between the brain and the missing limb. Creating an analogue way of allowing people to re-strengthen and adapt to their new physical self.
The system is divided into 3 sections with various tools; Healing°, Movement° and Stimulation°. The interaction of each item with the body will help with the re-education of the muscles and movement in the area, reducing the likelihood of pain. They will help the brain and the body understand and come to terms with the loss, and will allow them to remap and prevent future pain.