Overview

Postherpetic neuralgia is a chronic nerve pain condition that can develop after an outbreak of shingles (herpes zoster). It occurs when the virus causes long-term irritation or damage to the nerves, even after the skin rash has healed. The pain may be burning, stabbing, or electric-like and often affects the chest, back, or face. It can last for months or even years and tends to be more common in older adults or those with weakened immune systems.

Common Symptoms

• Persistent pain in the area where the shingles rash appeared
• Burning, stabbing, or aching sensations
• Extreme sensitivity to touch (even clothing or light contact)
• Itching or numbness in the affected area
• Disrupted sleep or mood due to ongoing discomfort

Causes & Risk Factors

• Prior episode of shingles (herpes zoster)
• Nerve damage caused by the virus
• Increased risk with age or immune suppression
• Pain that continues beyond 3 months after the shingles rash

How We Can Help

At Restore Spine and Pain, we focus on relieving nerve pain and restoring quality of life for patients suffering from postherpetic neuralgia. Our treatment plans are personalized and may include medications, nerve blocks, or neuromodulation to calm irritated nerves

Treatment Options Offered

1. Non-opioid medications such as nerve stabilizers
2. Topical agents
3. Image-guided nerve blocks for pain relief
4. Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) for chronic, treatment-resistant cases
5. Multimodal support including sleep and mood management strategies