Hi there! We understand that shingles can be overwhelming and isolating. This is a safe space to explore how acupuncture can bring relief to your everyday relief. We know that pain and discomfort of shingles can be discouraging and that’s why we are here to help you navigate through your journey with acupuncture being your number one supporter.

Understanding Shingles

Shingles is caused by the varicella zoster virus, which is the same virus that also causes chickenpox, which can lie inactive in your nerve tissues long after the initial illness. Under some conditions, it may reactivate later in life, which will then lead to shingles. While anyone can develop the condition, it most commonly affects older adults or those who have weaker immune systems. The onset of shingles typically involves a tingling or burning sensation, which is then followed by a painful rash that is filled with fluid blisters that usually appears in a band-like pattern on one side of the torso and/or the face. Besides the immediate discomfort, shingles can have a broader impact on both physical and emotional health, which can sometimes result in complications such as bacterial skin infections, vision problems, hearing problems, and neurological issues. Being on top of treatment is the key to managing symptoms and also preventing the potential complications.

Symptoms of Shingles

The symptoms of shingles include:

Rash & Blisters – (most common symptom) itchy & painful rash with fluid filled blisters that are highly sensitive

Nerve Pain – persistent nerve pain, including postherpetic neuralgia, can still be present even after the rash fades

Fever & Fatigue – some individuals experience flu like symptoms such as fever and tiredness

Emotional Impact – ongoing pain, discomfort, and slow healing journey can take a toll on your emotional wellbeing 

What is Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN)?

Post-herpetic neuralgia is lingering nerve pain that continues after the shingles rash has cleared. This happens when the herpes zoster virus harms nerve fibers, which then triggers chronic pain. This can be a sharp, burning, or throbbing pain and can last for months or even years. After a shingles episode, the virus can stay in the nerve roots, which then causes ongoing damage. This disruption in normal nerve function leads to chronic pain that varies in intensity from person to person. The persistent pain and discomfort can cause difficulty with routine tasks, sleep disruption, and psychological effects (anxiety, depression, etc).

What are the symptoms of PHN?

The symptoms of Post-herpetic neuralgia include:

Burning Pains – consistent, burning sensation of the affected area

Sensitivity – heightened sensitivity to touch, temperature, and/or pressure

Numbness/Itching – besides the pain some individuals experience numbness and/or itching

Post-herpetic neuralgia affects each individual differently. For some patients, they experience mild discomfort, while others it can be severe and debilitating.

How can acupuncture help my symptoms with shingles or post-herpetic neuralgia? 

The benefits that acupuncture can provide includes:

Pain Relief – triggering the release of endorphins and target specific nerves, which eases pain and inflammation

Nerve Regeneration – can help repair nerve damage, reducing consistent pain 

Boosts Immune System – enhances immune function, can help support your body fight the virus

Reduces Stress – helps calm stress , which is important due to the fact stress can worsen or trigger shingle outbreaks

Living with shingles or PHN is extremely challenging and can be debilitating. Acupuncture can be a valuable tool in your healing journey. Whether you are seeking relief from symptoms due to shingles or you are looking to minimize the risk of further damage, Westbury Acupuncture can help you. Call us today to schedule a free consultation so we can help you feel better!