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Stump and neuroma injections
Pain after amputation can arise from the residual limb, from a neuroma where a cut nerve has formed a sensitive bundle, or as phantom sensation in the missing limb. Targeted injection can help identify which is involved and reduce pain from a symptomatic neuroma.
In brief
- Distinguishes residual limb pain, neuroma pain and phantom limb pain.
- Neuromas can be located with ultrasound and injected directly.
- Diagnostic blocks help clarify the source before further treatment.
- Prosthetic fit and socket problems are assessed as part of the picture.
- Managed alongside rehabilitation rather than in isolation.
Pain after amputation is common and is frequently treated as a single problem when it is usually several. Separating them changes what will help.
Residual limb pain
is felt in the remaining limb itself and may relate to the bone end, scar, soft tissue, socket fit or load. Neuroma pain arises where a divided nerve forms a bundle of regenerating fibres that becomes mechanically and chemically sensitive; it is typically sharp, electric, and reproducible by pressing one specific spot. Phantom limb pain is felt in the part of the limb that is no longer there, and is generated by changes in the nervous system rather than by local tissue.
Dr Martin's background here
Amputation-related pain sits at the intersection of pain medicine and rehabilitation medicine. His rehabilitation training included amputee care, and this is an area of specific interest.
Finding a neuroma
A symptomatic neuroma can usually be identified on ultrasound and confirmed by pressing on it under vision to reproduce the pain. A small injection of local anaesthetic around it should abolish that pain temporarily — which both confirms the diagnosis and indicates whether targeting it further is worthwhile.
Treatment options
Where a neuroma is confirmed, options include injection with anti-inflammatory medication, radiofrequency treatment, or referral for surgical opinion in selected cases. Where phantom limb pain predominates, injections are less useful and treatment focuses on medication, sensory and mirror-based rehabilitation approaches, and desensitisation.
Prosthetic fit
A poorly fitting socket generates pain that no injection will fix. Assessment includes whether the prosthesis is contributing, and liaison with your prosthetist where it is.
On the day
Ultrasound-guided injections take 10–20 minutes and do not usually require sedation. You go home the same day.
Risks
Whilst pain procedures are generally safe and well tolerated, all procedures carry risks. The specific risks relevant to you and your procedure will be discussed with you, and written information provided, before you decide to proceed.
Realistic expectations
Pain after amputation often has more than one generator, and treating one may only partly reduce the total. Dr Martin will be clear about what a given step is likely to achieve.
Practical information
- Where
- Most procedures are performed as a day case at St John of God Subiaco Hospital, Hollywood Private Hospital, Mount Private Hospital or St John of God Midland Hospital; some smaller procedures are performed in the rooms at Mount Lawley. The setting is confirmed with you at booking.
- Referral
- Required from a GP or specialist — by Healthlink (EDI painmdwa), fax 08 6114 0717 or email. Routine appointments are generally available within two to four weeks.
- Before the day
- Fasting, medication and transport requirements are set out on Before your procedure. If you take blood-thinning medication, or diabetes or weight-loss injections, tell the practice well before the day.
- Costs
- Dr Martin is a no-gap provider for in-hospital procedures with all major health funds, subject to your level of cover. A fee estimate is supplied on booking, prior to your consultation. See Fees and billing.
- Afterwards
- If your procedure is under sedation you cannot drive for 24 hours afterwards — please arrange transport home. Written post-procedure instructions are provided.
- Rural and remote
- Assessment and review can be done by telehealth; the procedure itself is scheduled in Perth.
How to arrange an appointment
A referral from a GP or specialist is required. Referrals are accepted by Healthlink (EDI: painmdwa), fax 08 6114 0717 or email admin@painmedicinewa.com.
Enquiries: 0448 299 260 — Monday 9:00am – 4:00pm, Tuesday to Thursday 8:00am – 4:00pm.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Whether a treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation with your doctor.
Reviewed by Dr Chris Martin, Consultant Pain and Rehabilitation Physician (FFPMANZCA, FAFRM RACP), Pain Medicine WA, Perth. Last reviewed August 2026.In a medical emergency, call 000.