Content Analyses of A Priori Qualitative Phantom Limb Pain Descriptions and Emerging Categories in Mid‐Southerners with Limb Loss

Purpose The purposes of this descriptive study were (a) to identify the relative frequencies of a priori categories of phantom limb pain ( PLP ) quality descriptors reported by Mid‐Southerners with limb loss, (b) to analyze their descriptions for emerging categories of PLP , and (c) to identify the relative frequencies of the emerging categories. Design This cross‐sectional descriptive verbal survey assessed PLP descriptors. A content analyses determined relative frequencies of a priori PLP descriptors as well as emerging categories that were identified. Findings The most common a priori PLP quality descriptors reported by 52 amputees with PLP were intermittent, tingling/needles/numb, sharp, cramping, burning, and stabbing. The most common emerging categories reported were pain compared to illness/injury, electrical cyclical, and manipulated/positional. Conclusion The detailed descriptions of PLP provide insight into the vivid experiences of PLP . Clinical Relevance Rehabilitation nurses can use this information with PLP assessment, patient teaching, and counseling.