How Do You Stop Post Herpetic Neuralgia?
by Dr. | Dec 19, 2022
Categories: Acupuncture, Neuropathy, Pain
“I feel like my side is on fire every day.”
“The shingles rash is gone, but the pain remains unbearable.”
“Every touch feels like shards of glass scraping my skin.”
These are just some of the heartbreaking accounts from people suffering from Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)—a debilitating condition that can follow a shingles infection. While shingles itself is painful, PHN is often described as even worse, leaving individuals with burning, stabbing, and constant discomfort long after the rash has healed.
What Is Post-Herpetic Neuralgia?
Post-Herpetic Neuralgia affects one in five people who develop shingles, with those over 50 at the greatest risk. It is caused by nerve damage from the shingles virus, leaving the affected areas hypersensitive and in constant pain. The condition primarily affects the trunk, shoulders, neck, and face, making it painful to wear clothing like shirts, bras, or scarves—even the lightest touch can feel excruciating.
Common symptoms include:
- Burning Pain: Persistent and intense, often described as feeling like a live wire.
- Sensitivity to Touch: Even light fabrics or a gentle breeze can trigger pain.
- Sharp, Jabbing Pain: Random and unpredictable bursts of severe discomfort.
- Aching or Throbbing: A deeper, more constant pain.
Living with PHN can feel overwhelming, but relief is possible.
How Acupuncture Can Help Post-Herpetic Neuralgia
Acupuncture has been shown to be an effective treatment for reducing the pain and discomfort of PHN. It works by:
- Reducing Pain Signals: Acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, releasing endorphins and calming overactive pain pathways.
- Promoting Nerve Repair: Improves circulation to damaged nerves, supporting regeneration and healing.
- Easing Sensitivity: Helps desensitize the skin, reducing the burning and sharp pain triggered by touch.
- Alleviating Itching and Irritation: Addresses the residual itchiness and discomfort left by nerve damage.
Acupuncture offers a safe, drug-free approach to managing the symptoms of post-herpetic neuralgia, providing relief where other treatments may fall short.
Take Control of Your Pain Today
Post-Herpetic Neuralgia doesn’t have to dictate your life. While the condition may not be preventable, effective treatment is within reach. At our clinic, we specialize in helping patients reclaim their lives from the pain of PHN through personalized acupuncture care.
Due to the intensive care required, we only accept five new PHN patients each month. If you’re ready to stop the burning, aching, and hypersensitivity, call 587-879-7122 to schedule your consultation today. Relief is possible—let us help you take the first step toward living pain-free.