Objective: We report an interesting case of jumpy stump, where the stump movements are different from those previously reported as myoclonic or choreic movements.

Background: Painful jumping stump is characterized by persistent choreiform or myoclonic or other involuntary movements. Severe neuropathic pain in the stump of a limb can occur following amputation. This syndrome is also defined as “trepidation du moignon”, convulsive movements of the stump or “jumpy stump”.

Method: A 54 year old male reported to us with the complaints of pain in the right lower limb stump with some abnormal movements. He was amputated below knee in right lower limb in 2004 following a crush injury. Initially it started as mild pain which lasted for few seconds, then gradually since 2014 the pain persisted for minutes and now the pain was very severe associated with abnormal movements. Pain and movement were also present during sleep. Patient’s family members observed the abnormal movements which resembled the chewing movements of camel.

Results: In the stump region there was abnormal wave like rippling movements present without the movement of the joint with variable speed. On examination,vitals were stable, he was afebrile and no abnormal neurological finding except the movements and pain. EMG showed repeated rhythmic discharges at rest suggestive of myokymia. By history, clinical examination and EMG findings, we came to a conclusion of Jumpy Stump.

Conclusion: Stump movements in our case are different from those previously reported as myoclonic or choreic movements. There is a need for further clinical and electrophysiological investigations in order to understand the exact mechanisms playing role in development of this disorder to redefine the diagnosis and modify treatment modalities.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/chewing-camel-in-stump/