TL;DR Quick answer
Burning nerve pain that continues after a shingles rash has healed. A pain specialist can confirm the cause and plan treatment, with non-surgical options considered first, such as intercostal nerve block.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala — Consultant Pain Physician View full profile →
About post-herpetic neuralgia
After shingles, some people develop persistent pain in the same area. It is more common with increasing age and can be very sensitive to light touch.
| Key facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Common symptoms | Burning or stabbing pain where the rash was; pain from light touch or clothing; itching or numbness |
| Common causes | Nerve damage from the shingles virus |
| How it is diagnosed | Diagnosis is based on your history and a focused examination, with imaging or tests only when they will guide treatment. |
| When to get help | See a doctor early for a new shingles rash, especially near the eye; early treatment matters |
| Treatment options | Intercostal Nerve Block |
| Who to see | Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala, Consultant Pain Physician |
Symptoms
- Burning or stabbing pain where the rash was
- Pain from light touch or clothing
- Itching or numbness
- Disturbed sleep
Causes
- Nerve damage from the shingles virus
How it is diagnosed
Diagnosis is based on your history and a focused examination, with imaging or tests only when they will guide treatment.
Treatment options
Treatment is tailored to the cause and may include medication review, rehabilitation, and image-guided procedures for selected patients.
When to seek help
See a doctor early for a new shingles rash, especially near the eye; early treatment matters.
| Option | Type | What it involves | Typical duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intercostal Nerve Block | Procedure | An injection around the rib nerves for chest wall and rib pain. | 10–20 minutes |
This page is for general information. Whether a treatment is suitable for you is decided after an individual consultation.
