Our Post-Shingles Pain Treatment service provides personalised care for individuals suffering from postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), the lingering nerve pain that can follow a shingles outbreak. Our experienced team uses a multidisciplinary approach to manage symptoms and improve quality of life, offering pain management treatments tailored to each patient’s needs. We focus on reducing discomfort, restoring function and helping patients regain control over their daily activities.
What causes Post Shingles Pain?
Post-shingles pain, or postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), is caused by nerve damage resulting from a shingles infection. During a shingles outbreak, the virus travels along nerve pathways to the skin, causing inflammation, a painful rash and damage to the nerves involved. In some individuals, particularly older adults, the nerves don’t heal properly after the rash resolves, leading to chronic pain that can persist for months or even years.
The exact reason why some people develop postherpetic neuralgia while others do not is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. Age is one of the strongest predictors, with people over 60 being much more likely to develop PHN. A severe shingles outbreak, a delayed or ineffective antiviral treatment, and having the rash in certain areas such as the face or torso also increase the likelihood of nerve damage.
Types of Post Shingles Pain
Post Shingles Pain can be categorised into several different types, depending on its origin, nature and duration.
Constant Burning or Aching Pain
This is the most common type of PHN pain. It is usually described as a deep, steady burning or throbbing sensation in the area where the shingles rash occurred. The skin in this area may feel hypersensitive or irritated even without any obvious trigger.
Allodynia (Pain from Non-Painful Stimuli)
In cases of allodynia, even light touch or gentle pressure such as clothing brushing against the skin can cause intense pain. This occurs because the damaged nerves become hypersensitive, interpreting normal sensations as painful.
Intermittent Stabbing or Shooting Pain
Some people experience sudden, sharp pains that come and go unpredictably. These stabbing or electric-shock-like sensations are typically caused by damaged nerves misfiring and sending erratic pain signals to the brain.
Itching, Numbness, or Tingling (Paresthesia)
While not always painful, these abnormal sensations are common in PHN. They may coexist with other types of pain and can be distressing or uncomfortable, often indicating ongoing nerve irritation.
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Dr Adrian Dashfield
Consultant Anaesthetist & Pain Management Specialist
MB ChB MSc MSc MD FRCA FFPMRCA FAcadMEd