30-Second Blog “Snapshot:”
- The shingles vaccine may not prevent the disease, but studies indicate it is still beneficial for lowering the risk of post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN).
- Post-herpetic neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that is considered a complication of the shingles virus.
- The leaders of Utah pain management at Southwest Spine and Pain Center discuss a study regarding the reduced risk of chronic pain for those who receive the shingles vaccination.
The pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center provide a number of treatment options to help relieve chronic pain from shingles. As we mentioned in our blog “Treatments to Help Relieve Shingles Pain,” some treatments for post-herpetic neuralgia may include:
- Acyclovir
- Valacyclovir
- Famciclovir
- Anticonvulsants and lidocaine
- Medication and steroid injections
According to the study conducted by researchers at the Kaiser Permanente Southern California Department of Research & Evaluation, the shingles vaccine was found beneficial in reducing the risk of chronic pain, even in those patients who still developed shingles after receiving it. For the study, researchers studied 2,400 patients over 60 who had developed shingles: one group had the vaccine, the other did not.
When the team complied the data, they found that fewer males and females experienced post-herpetic neuralgia after receiving the vaccine compared to the other group who did not receive the vaccine. Statistical data can be found here.
It’s important to get vaccinated for this disease, even if there is still a chance of developing it afterward. For those who already have post-herpetic neuralgia, or chronic pain from the shingles virus, call Southwest Spine and Pain Center today! Our team of physicians will work with you to develop a treatment plan that may effectively reduce pain and discomfort. Call today!
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With five locations in Utah and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.