Overview

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. MRICT 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.
Products & Services
A Book: Future Care

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

Request an appointment


Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.
The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:
  • High blood pressure.
  • Diabetes.
  • Heart failure.
  • Some types of heart valve disease.
Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:
  • Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
  • Don't smoke or use tobacco.
  • Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
  • Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
  • Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Reduce and manage stress.


Print

Living with atrial fibrillation?

Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Freedmans Health Clinic Connect, a patient community.

Heart Rhythm Conditions Discussions

See more discussions

Comments are closed for this post.