Question
About 2 1/2 years ago I was having extreme pain, along with a numbing feeling, in my back, so I went to my chiropractor whom I have seen for the last 12 years.  Usually after only one visit, I feel 95% better.  On this particular visit it was just the opposite. By the time I got home I was in 5 times as much pain than when I had went.  I called their office and the secretary told me to come in the following day.  When I arrived he started asking me very specific questions regarding my pain, and goes on to tell me he thinks it may be shingles.  I had no idea what shingles was so I asked as many questions as allowed, and then googled it on the computer. I never did have an outbreak of sores or blisters, but from what I read about the pain, it was dead on to what I had been experiencing.  Is it possible to have a "sub-dermal" sort of shingles with no outbreak?  Even when the pain lessened somewhat it has never entirely been gone.  Now there is an area in my back that is numb all the time.  At the present time I am again experiencing the pain and numbing feelings.  It's best describe as a pins and needles sensation.  Also there are times when the slightest touch brings me to my knees in tears.  I can not even begin to describle that pain, it is the worst.  Any insight you could give me would be so appreciatd?  Thanks for your time.

Sincerely

rmiller

Answer
Hi Rona and thanks for writing,

Shingles certainly does hurt and about 20% of those diagnosed with shingles go on to suffer long-lasting pain from post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) which can be more painful than shingles. Although most people suffer with shingles for about a month, the pain and skin sensitivity can continue for months or even years in some patients.

This pain of PHN may be sharp, piercing, throbbing or stabbing and may result in intolerable skin sensitivity to even the lightest touch. However, the good news is that for most people who develop PHN, the pain will gradually resolve with time. And today there are multiple treatment options that do result in pain relief for those suffering from PHN.

There is no cure for PHN. Rather, treatment focuses on relieving pain. The most commonly prescribed medications are strong pain relievers containing opioids, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and a newly approved topical lidocaine patch. Most PHN patients have meaningful pain relief from one or a combination of these drugs.

excerpts from: http://www.aftershingles.com/phn.html

I hope this answers your question, all my best,

Margot