Overview
Stump pain differs from phantom pain, which is felt in the missing part.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Stump pain or sores
Less common
- Phantom pain
When to get medical care
Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayFever with redness.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.
Causes
Fit, nerves.
Diagnosis
A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- Exam:
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.
Self-care
- Check skin daily
- Keep the socket fit right
- Wear a shrinker sock as advised
- Massage the stump gently
Prevention
To lower your risk or prevent problems:
- Check skin daily
- Keep a steady weight for socket fit
Which doctor treats this
- Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
- They may send you to an infectious disease specialist, for hard-to-treat infections.
Back to school, work, or sports
- Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- People with diabetes: Higher risk of sores.
Outlook
Most problems improve with adjustments.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines and supplements
- Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
Questions to ask
- What's causing this?
- What treatment do you recommend?
- Is my socket fitting right?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.