Body Schema Self-Awareness and Related Dream Content Modifications in Amputees Due to Cancer.
Brain Sciences December 9, 2021 Alessandra Giordano, Michele Boffano, Raimondo Piana et al.
After limb amputation for sarcoma, all patients experienced phantom limb sensations and 35% reported telescoping (the sensation of the missing limb shrinking) soon after surgery, dropping to 25% after 4-6 months. Half of the patients dreamed about still having their missing limbs at both time points. Over time, patients' perceived ability to cope with problems decreased while pain and its interference with daily life increased, though they remained engaged in everyday activities and reported good mood. Dream content analysis revealed that males were less worried about health problems soon after amputation, while women showed more initial difficulties that resolved after 4-6 months. Analyzing dreams may help clinicians support patients during recovery.