Diagnosis

It's important to get an accurate diagnosis and identify the cause of your residual limb pain, as some causes may be reversible. Tests and procedures used to diagnose residual limb pain may include:

• Physical exam. Your doctor will likely inspect your residual limb and feel it to check for skin breakdown, pressure sores and problems with the bone. He or she will also look for signs of infection and masses. Your doctor may also tap on your residual limb to check for symptoms of pain that indicate a tangle of nerve endings that can form after amputation (neuroma).
• Imaging tests. MRI, CT scan, X-rays or ultrasound may be used to help rule out other possible causes for your pain or to confirm your doctor's suspicions. These tests may identify fractures, bone bruises and other bone abnormalities, tumors, and infection.
• Blood tests. You may need some blood tests to help rule out other possible causes for your pain or to confirm your doctor's suspicions.