Shingles

Reference Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) Opens New Window, the most common complication of shingles, is difficult to treat. Your doctor may recommend other treatments, along with medicines, to control the pain of PHN.

Other treatment choices

There are other treatments that may be used for shingles and postherpetic neuralgia. These treatments may help, but there is no clear evidence from studies that show how well these treatments work. These other treatments include:

• Reference Acupuncture, a Chinese therapy that has been used for centuries to reduce pain.
• Reference Biofeedback, a method of consciously controlling a body function that is normally regulated automatically by the body.
• Reference Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) Opens New Window, a therapy that uses mild electrical current to treat pain.

Psychological therapies that help you tolerate long-term pain, such as Reference cognitive-behavioral therapy, may be helpful. These methods can include counseling as well as learning techniques that teach you to shift your focus of attention away from the pain, such as Reference relaxation and breathing exercises.

Reference Reference Stress Management: Breathing Exercises for Relaxation

For severe pain from PHN, you may need to see a Reference pain management specialist Opens New Window. These doctors are trained to help with pain that doesn't respond to medicines or usual treatments.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.