Final answer:
The concept that describes the perception of touch on the amputated limb when the face is touched is called neuroplasticity. It involves the brain reassigning sensation areas in the somatosensory cortex, a process that can result in phantom limb sensations. Mirror box therapy, created by Dr. Ramachandran, uses this ability of the brain to adapt, reducing phantom limb pain.
Step-by-step explanation:
Phantom Limb Sensation and Neuroplasticity:
The concept that explains why people with an amputated arm might feel a touch on their face as occurring both on their face and on their missing arm is known as neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. This phenomenon is particularly evident in individuals experiencing phantom limb sensations, where the brain continues to receive signals from nerves that originally served the amputated limb.
Dr. Ramachandran's mirror box therapy leverages this concept by using visual feedback to trick the brain into believing the missing limb is still present, which can help alleviate phantom limb pain. The therapy demonstrates the remarkable ability of the brain to rewire itself and find new pathways to interpret sensory input, a testament to the brain's adaptability. This illustrates the key roles that perception and nerve transmission play in the experience of phantom limb syndrome and its treatment.