Severe postherpetic neuralgia and facial paralysis in the oral and periauricular regions managed with acupuncture and electroacupuncture: a case report
2024

Acupuncture for Severe Pain and Facial Paralysis After Shingles

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Li Junlong, Wang Jing, Li Guiping, Zhang Jieying, Zhang Boru, Wang Shu

Primary Institution: First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hypothesis

Can acupuncture and electroacupuncture effectively manage severe postherpetic neuralgia and facial paralysis?

Conclusion

Acupuncture and electroacupuncture may significantly relieve pain and improve facial nerve function in patients with postherpetic neuralgia.

Supporting Evidence

  • The patient experienced significant pain relief after acupuncture treatment.
  • Facial nerve function improved, allowing the patient to resume daily activities.
  • The patient reported mild pain only occasionally after one year.

Takeaway

This study shows that acupuncture can help people with severe pain and facial paralysis after having shingles.

Methodology

The patient received acupuncture and electroacupuncture treatments over 21 sessions, focusing on specific acupoints to relieve pain and improve facial function.

Limitations

The findings are based on a single case study, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

A 66-year-old male patient with a history of herpes zoster and severe pain.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3389/fpain.2024.1474103

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