Let’s talk shingles—and no, we aren’t talking about the ones you need to replace on your roof! The Mayo Clinic describes shingles as a viral infection that causes an intense, painful rash that can occur or appear anywhere on your body. Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, so if you have chickenpox as a child, the virus stays in your body for the rest of your life. As time passes, the virus can turn into shingles.
At Dallas Pain Institute, we understand that shingles is not life-threatening, but can be very painful to live and deal with every day. Early treatment may shorten a shingles infection and lessen the chance of complications down the road. Let’s explore some of the treatment options we recommend.
Understanding Shingle Pain
Shingles pain can become pretty intense right from the start. Along with the classic rash and blisters, you might feel a burning, tingling, or shooting pain in the area. What’s really tough, though, is that for some people, this pain sticks around even after the rash clears up. This lingering pain is called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
Shingle Treatment Sherman, TX
Our team at Dallas Pain Institute offers a comprehensive array of cutting-edge treatment options tailored to address the unique needs of each patient battling shingle pain. During your visit to one of our pain management clinics in Rowlett, Sherman, Greenville & Forney, TX, we will discuss strategies to help alleviate your pain and enhance your quality of life.
Medications
Medications are often the first go-to for any type of pain (shingles included). Your physician may prescribe:
- Antiviral drugs: These help fight the virus and can make the outbreak less severe and shorter.
- Pain relievers: This could be over-the-counter stuff like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, or even stronger prescription painkillers.
- Antidepressants: These can help control pain signals and manage the nerve pain that comes with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
Nerve Blocks and Injections
If you’re dealing with severe or ongoing pain, nerve blocks or injections might be a good option for you. These are simple procedures where medication is given directly to the affected nerves to block pain signals and numb the area.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can really help with shingles pain. Things like gentle stretching exercises and massages can make you more flexible, ease muscle stiffness, and help with pain relief.
Alternative Therapies
In addition to conventional medical treatments, Dallas Pain Institute can help refer you to alternative therapies and clinics for acupuncture, chiropractic care, and massage therapy to complement pain management efforts and promote overall well-being.
Pain Management Treatments Sherman TX
If you’re dealing with shingles pain, you don’t have to go through it alone. Our team at Dallas Pain Institute is ready to help you get your life back and find some relief. Whether you’re in Sherman, TX, Rowlett, TX, Greenville, TX, Forney, TX, or anywhere else in North Dallas, our clinics are nearby and ready to serve you. We look forward to caring for you!