Can a massage help with shingles pain?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella - zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus can lie dormant in the body's nerve tissues. Later in life, due to factors such as aging, stress, or a weakened immune system, the virus can reactivate, leading to shingles. The most prominent symptom of shingles is a painful, blister - like rash that typically appears on one side of the body. The pain associated with shingles can range from mild to excruciating, significantly affecting a patient's quality of life.

As a massage service provider, we often get asked whether massage can help with shingles pain. To understand this, we first need to look at the nature of shingles pain. Shingles pain can be divided into acute pain during the active phase of the rash and post - herpetic neuralgia (PHN), which can persist for months or even years after the rash has healed.

Acute Shingles Phase

During the acute phase of shingles, when the rash is present and the blisters are still forming, massage is generally not recommended. The skin is highly sensitive, and any external pressure or friction from massage could potentially rupture the blisters, increasing the risk of secondary infections. The varicella - zoster virus is highly contagious in its active form, and direct contact with the open sores can spread the virus to others. Additionally, the inflammation in the affected area is at its peak, and massage might exacerbate the pain and swelling.

Post - Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)

However, once the acute phase has passed and the blisters have crusted over and healed, massage can potentially offer some relief for post - herpetic neuralgia. PHN is a type of neuropathic pain, which is caused by damage to the nerves. It can be characterized by burning, tingling, stabbing, or shooting pain, and it can be very difficult to treat.

One of the ways massage can help with PHN is through the release of endorphins. Endorphins are the body's natural painkillers. When we receive a massage, the physical manipulation of the muscles and soft tissues stimulates the release of endorphins. These endorphins bind to the opioid receptors in the brain, reducing the perception of pain. For patients suffering from PHN, the increase in endorphin levels can provide some relief from the constant, often debilitating pain.

Massage also helps to improve blood circulation. In the areas affected by shingles, the nerve damage can disrupt normal blood flow. By increasing blood circulation through massage, we can deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the damaged nerve tissues, which may aid in the healing process. Improved blood flow can also help to reduce inflammation and swelling, which are common contributing factors to pain.

Another benefit of massage is its ability to relax the muscles. Muscle tension is a common response to pain, and in the case of PHN, the constant pain can cause the surrounding muscles to become tight and spasmed. A gentle massage can help to loosen these tight muscles, reducing the pressure on the nerves and potentially alleviating some of the pain.

Types of Massage for Shingles Pain

When it comes to using massage to relieve shingles pain, certain types of massage are more suitable than others.

• Swedish Massage: This is a gentle form of massage that uses long, smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements. It is ideal for patients with PHN because it is not overly invasive and can be adjusted to the patient's comfort level. The gentle pressure of Swedish massage can help to relax the muscles, improve blood circulation, and stimulate the release of endorphins.
• Myofascial Release: The myofascial system is a network of connective tissue that surrounds and supports the muscles. In patients with shingles, the myofascial tissue can become tight and restricted, contributing to pain. Myofascial release focuses on applying gentle, sustained pressure to the myofascial tissue to release tension and restore normal movement. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with PHN, as it can help to relieve the pain caused by muscle and tissue tightness.

Precautions

Even when the acute phase of shingles has passed, there are still some precautions that need to be taken when providing massage for patients with PHN.

• Consultation: Before starting any massage treatment, it is essential to have a thorough consultation with the patient. This should include a detailed medical history, including the onset and progression of shingles, any current medications, and any other health conditions. This information will help the massage therapist to determine whether massage is appropriate and to tailor the treatment to the patient's specific needs.
• Sensitivity: The affected area may still be very sensitive, even after the rash has healed. The massage therapist should use a light touch and avoid applying too much pressure. It is also important to ask the patient for feedback during the massage to ensure that the pressure is comfortable.
• Hygiene: Good hygiene practices are crucial. The massage therapist should wash their hands thoroughly before and after the massage and use clean linens and massage oils. This helps to prevent the spread of any remaining virus and reduces the risk of infection.

Our Approach as a Massage Supplier

At our massage service, we understand the unique challenges faced by patients with shingles pain. Our team of experienced massage therapists is trained to provide safe and effective massage treatments for patients with PHN. We take a personalized approach to each patient, carefully assessing their condition and developing a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs.

We use only high - quality, natural massage oils that are gentle on the skin and have anti - inflammatory and soothing properties. These oils not only enhance the massage experience but also provide additional benefits for the skin and nerves.

In addition to providing in - person massage services, we also offer educational resources for patients and their families. We believe that education is key to managing shingles pain effectively. Our resources include information on the causes and symptoms of shingles, the benefits of massage, and self - care tips for managing pain at home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while massage is not recommended during the acute phase of shingles, it can be a valuable complementary therapy for post - herpetic neuralgia. By releasing endorphins, improving blood circulation, and relaxing the muscles, massage can help to alleviate the pain associated with PHN and improve the patient's quality of life.

If you or someone you know is suffering from shingles pain, we encourage you to consider our massage services. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and support. We are committed to helping you find relief from pain and regain your well - being. If you are interested in learning more about our services or would like to schedule a consultation, please reach out to us. We look forward to the opportunity to discuss how we can assist you in your journey towards pain relief.

References

1. Dworkin RH, Johnson RW, Breuer JM, et al. Recommendations for the management of herpes zoster. Clin Infect Dis. 2007;44(Suppl 1):S1 - S26.
2. Smith BH, Torrance N, Bennett MI. Systematic review of antidepressants in neuropathic pain. Pain. 2002;99(1 - 2):133 - 145.
3. Moyer CA, Rounds J, Hannum JW. A meta - analysis of massage therapy research. Psychol Bull. 2004;130(1):3 - 18.