FAQs

1. Is there a cure for PHN? Do some people recover from it?
While there is currently no cure for PHN, exercise, physical therapy and medication improve most people’s symptoms, especially when treatment begins in the early stages of shingles. PHN often improves with time.

2. Why is physical therapy important?
The information and techniques you learn in physical therapy can help you cope with pain and other symptoms. Your physical therapist can advise you about stretching and strengthening exercises and activities to help improve your stamina and energy.

3. I tried exercising to help my PHN, but my symptoms got worse. Why?
You may have exercised too much. Research shows that the right exercise program can improve symptoms and increase your ability to do normal daily activities. However, over-training can make symptoms worse and cause you to feel discouraged. It is important to start an exercise program in a slow, gradual way. Work with a physical therapist to develop a training program that includes the right type and amount of exercise for you.