Question

When is desensitization indicated for individuals with limb loss?

a) When there is no sensation in the residual limb
b) When skin of the residual limb is hypersensitive to touch, pressure, or temperature
c) Desensitization is never indicated
d) Only when there is extreme pain in the residual limb

Answer 1

Desensitization is indicated when the residual limb skin is hypersensitive, helping to reduce discomfort and prepare the limb for prosthesis use.

Step-by-step explanation:

Desensitization is indicated for individuals with limb loss when the skin of the residual limb is hypersensitive to touch, pressure, or temperature. This treatment is particularly important because it helps to reduce the hypersensitivity and prepare the limb for the prosthesis, thereby improving the comfort and functionality for the individual. Desensitization techniques involve gradually introducing different textures and stimuli to the residual limb to accustom the sensory receptors to the sensations again. These techniques can include massaging, tapping, or using materials with different textures.