Postherpetic Neuralgia Treatment in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa

Postherpetic neuralgia is a chronic nerve pain condition that can develop after an outbreak of shingles (herpes zoster). While shingles itself often resolves within weeks, some individuals experience lingering nerve pain that can persist for months or even years. This ongoing discomfort, known as postherpetic neuralgia, occurs when the shingles virus damages nerve fibers, leading to heightened sensitivity and pain in the affected area.

If you are living with nerve pain following a shingles outbreak, consult a pain doctor at The Pain Experts of Arizona. Our team provides advanced treatment options for postherpetic neuralgia to patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa.

Understanding Postherpetic Neuralgia

Postherpetic neuralgia typically develops in the same area where the shingles rash appeared. Pain that continues for more than 30 days after the rash has healed is often classified as postherpetic neuralgia. For some individuals, the discomfort may last only a few weeks, while others experience chronic pain for several years.

Researchers believe the condition results from nerve injury during the shingles outbreak. Damaged nerves send abnormal pain signals to the brain, even when no ongoing injury exists. Although not everyone who has shingles will develop postherpetic neuralgia, certain factors increase the risk:

• Age over 50

• Severe shingles outbreaks

• Immune system deficiencies

• Delayed antiviral treatment during shingles

Symptoms of Postherpetic Neuralgia

Symptoms can vary but often include:

• Burning, sharp, or jabbing pain in the area previously affected by shingles

• Persistent aching or deep discomfort

• Extreme sensitivity to touch, pressure, or temperature changes (allodynia)

• Numbness or tingling sensations

• Itching or irritation

• Difficulty concentrating or sleeping due to pain

• Fatigue and mood changes, such as depression or anxiety

The severity of symptoms ranges from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that interferes with daily life.

Diagnosing Postherpetic Neuralgia

A pain specialist at The Pain Experts of Arizona can typically diagnose postherpetic neuralgia through a clinical evaluation. Your medical history, especially any recent shingles infection, combined with the description and duration of your pain, usually provides sufficient information for diagnosis.

Diagnostic tests, such as imaging or blood work, are rarely needed but may be used to rule out other causes of nerve pain if symptoms are atypical.

Treatment Options

While postherpetic neuralgia can be challenging to treat, many patients experience significant relief with a combination of therapies. At our pain clinic locations in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa, we offer:

• Topical creams and numbing patches

• Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications

• Antidepressants (such as tricyclic antidepressants) for nerve pain modulation

• Anticonvulsant medications

• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation

• Nerve blocks for targeted pain relief

• Physical therapy to improve function and reduce discomfort

Our pain specialists develop customized treatment plans based on the severity of symptoms, medical history, and response to previous therapies. Multimodal approaches often provide the best outcomes for chronic nerve pain.

Causes and Risk Factors

The primary cause of postherpetic neuralgia is nerve damage from the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox and shingles. Factors that increase the risk of developing this condition include:

• Aging, particularly over age 50

• A history of severe shingles outbreaks

• Chronic illnesses that affect the immune system

• Stress or other triggers that can cause shingles recurrence

Quick Facts

• Postherpetic neuralgia affects 10 to 15 percent of individuals who experience shingles.

• The condition is more common in older adults.

• Duration of pain can range from weeks to several years.

• Early antiviral treatment during shingles may reduce the risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

If you or a loved one is suffering from nerve pain after shingles, contact The Pain Experts of Arizona. Our experienced pain doctors in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend a personalized treatment plan to reduce pain and improve quality of life. Schedule your consultation today and start your journey toward lasting relief.

Call us today at 480-950-9393 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward feeling better.

The Pain Experts of Arizona – Your Partners in Pain Relief and Recovery.

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