Doctors at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee have revolutionised the way mirrors are used to alleviate phantom limb pain in amputees.

Phantom limb pain is a common complication following amputation of a leg or arm.  The brain continues to send signals to move the missing limb, with the sensory feedback it receives causing the brain to receive the results as a sensation of pain where the limb used to be.

It has previously proved difficult to treat.  Patients are given pain killers and offer what is known as "mirror therapy" - placing the intact limb in front of a mirror, with the brain "tricked" into believing they are seen an intact amputated limb.

Now Dundee medics have created a fully portable product that can be used for both missing legs and arms.

The "Prism Glasses" can also be used to help with other conditions such as stroke, chronic regional pain syndrome, visual neglect syndrome, and could even be used to help treat dyslexia.

Inventor Dr Jonathan Bannister said: "Phantom limb pain can be excruciating for patients who have undergone amputations.

"I work to help patients manage that pain on a daily basis and I found it frustrating that there was no product that was easy for patients to use to help them in their own homes.

"This inspired the development of the Prism Glasses and I am delighted to see the final product ready to help patients cope with phantom limb pain."

Dr Nigel McLean, senior programme manager at Scottish Health Innovations Ltd, added: "Working with the team behind the Prism Glasses has been a pleasure. The project is a brilliant example of how those working in the frontline of the NHS are in the very best position to help improve patient care"