Acupuncture for Shingles Pain and a Holistic Approach to supporting your Immune system.
During my time as an acupuncture student, I had the privilege of witnessing a remarkable case that solidified my belief in the power of acupuncture – especially when it comes to supporting our immune system and resilience. A 61 year old patient came into Dr. Li's hospital style clinic with a severe case of shingles that had manifested on her face very close to her eye. Over the next few months, I was consistently impressed with her commitment to the treatment that I was lucky enough to observe in a clinical setting. The brief case notes are below for acupuncturists who would like to know treatment for this case…If you would like a copy of the full case notes, please feel free to email me christine@lovethyhealth.net
If you've ever consulted with me in clinic, you'll know I often talk about the nervous system being the ‘Queen of all systems’! When it's supported, our whole system is much less vulnerable to illness. And in the case of shingles, it so often arises when we're overworked, overstressed, and our immune system becomes overwhelmed. As in this case, diving deeper during case taking this virus infiltrated after a period of prolonged overwork and stress.
This particular case made such an impact on me that I decided to delve deeper into the research. It became one of my final and most informative research pieces.
What are Shingles?
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster (HZ), is a painful viral infection that can significantly impact your quality of life. It's caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox.
Even after chickenpox clears, the virus can lie dormant in your body for decades, potentially re-emerging as shingles later in life.
What are the Symptoms of Shingles?
Shingles typically presents as a painful rash, often described as burning, tingling, or shooting pain, often on one side of the body. This rash commonly appears as a band of blisters, most frequently on the torso, but it can also affect other areas, including the face and may if left untreated affect the eyes. So it is important to see a medical doctor for assessment.
Other symptoms may include:
Fever
Headache
Sensitivity to light
Fatigue
Itching and burning sensation in the area of the rash.
Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)
One of the most challenging complications of shingles is post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a chronic nerve pain that can persist long after the shingles rash has healed. PHN can be debilitating, impacting sleep, mood, and overall well-being. This is when acupuncture can help.
A Holistic Approach to Shingles Management
While conventional medical treatments like antiviral medications and pain relievers are crucial, many individuals seek complementary therapies to manage their symptoms and support their body's healing process. It is still essential to consult with your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. This blog explores some complementary approaches that may be beneficial when used in conjunction with conventional care.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or therapy.
Acupuncture for Shingles and pain - PHN
Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) technique, involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing.
How Acupuncture May Help - findings of the research
Pain Relief: Acupuncture is believed to stimulate the release of endorphins, natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body.
Reduce Inflammation: Some studies suggest acupuncture can help reduce inflammation, a key factor in shingles and PHN.
Improve Sleep: By promoting relaxation and reducing pain, acupuncture may improve sleep quality and imunity.
Reduce Stress: Acupuncture can help regulate the nervous system, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm.
Supporting Your Immune System: Key to Shingles Management
A strong immune system is essential for fighting off the shingles virus and preventing complications. Here are some tips to support your immune health:
Balanced Diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. Soups and slow cooked foods are a great way to get your body digesting well at this time without too much work.
Stress Management: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night.
Regular Exercise: Gentle and moderate exercise can boost immune function. Restorative stretching only while in acute phase.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Around 2 litres for adults.
Herbal and Supplement Interventions for Shingels
Certain herbs and supplements may offer additional support for shingles management. Always consult with your doctor and a qualified naturopath or herbalist before using any herbal remedies or supplements, as they can interact with medications or have side effects.
Potential Options (To Discuss with Your Practitioner):
L-Lysine: An amino acid that may help inhibit viral replication.
Vitamin C: An antioxidant that supports immune function.
Vitamin D: Important for immune regulation.
B Vitamins: Support nerve health and reduce stress.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): May have antiviral properties and can be used topically to soothe the rash.
St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum): May help with nerve pain (PHN), but it interacts with some medications.
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA): May be benificial to help reduce nerve pain in some individuals. Oral and topical applications may reduce shingles-induced nerve pain.
Working with Your Healthcare Team
Managing shingles effectively requires a collaborative approach. Be sure to communicate openly with your doctor about all treatments you are considering, including complementary therapies.
Key Takeaways
Shingles is a painful viral infection that can lead to complications like PHN.
Conventional medical treatments are essential for managing shingles.
Acupuncture, a healthy lifestyle, and certain herbs and supplements may offer complementary support.
Always consult with your healthcare team to develop an individualized treatment plan.
By taking a proactive and holistic approach, you can effectively manage shingles symptoms, support your body's natural healing processes, and improve your overall well-being.
Shingles Case Study Example
A 61-year-old woman ("JS") with shingles on the left side of her face sought acupuncture treatment. Her symptoms included severe burning pain, itching, and partial facial paralysis. After 12 weeks of weekly acupuncture treatments, she reported a significant reduction in pain, itching, and stress, along with improved sleep and energy levels.
The acupuncture points used and treatment principle was to clear Liver and Gallbladder Fire, resolve Liver Qi stagnation and Nourish Yin, relieve pain and promote healing and function. Points were chosen on the basis of the patients individual Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis
LV3 to Spread Liver Qi, Clears head and eyes
LI4; to alleviate pain, regulate defensive qi, the face and eyes, Clears head and eyes.
LI11; to clear Heat alleviate itching, regulate Qi and cool the blood
GB1; for temporal headache and clear Heat and local pain
KI6 to tonify KI Yin & clear Heat, un-obstruct Qi, calm the mind support sleep
SI6 Even method to clear the head and eyes and for acute conditions
ST36 circulation of qi and blood and supportive of wound healing
CV4 immunomodulatory effect
ST44 pain and burning on the face, restlessness
LV2 pain, headache, itching, stress and restlessness
BaiChongWo itching
Important Considerations:
Acupuncture treatment plans are individualised based on your specific symptoms and TCM diagnosis.
It's crucial to find a qualified and experienced acupuncturist.
Acupuncture should be used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical care.
Dr. Christine Carley is a naturopath and acupuncturist with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals on their journey to better health. She provides a diverse range of care, workshops, and Soul Journey retreats through Beautiful Humans Retreats, offering spaces for healing, spiritual growth, and holistic well-being.
Christine is passionate about helping clients navigate burnout, fatigue, sleep issues, pain, gut health, menopause, fertility, and IVF preparation. She has worked extensively with chronic and complex and autoimmune conditions, collaborating with cardiologists, psychologists, and allied health professionals.
Taking a holistic, person-centered approach, Christine offers support online, in-person in West Footscray, near Yarraville and Seddon, and through transpersonal wellness retreats, guiding individuals toward balance, resilience, and lasting well-being.
picture of shingles: Ausmed