Intercostal Neuralgia

Post-herpetic neuralgia occurs when the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which lies dormant in nerve ganglia, reactivates and damages the nerve fibers themselves. It most frequently affects the thoracic nerve ganglia (T3–T9), manifesting as intercostal neuralgia. Pain that persists for more than four weeks after the rash disappears is defined as PHN, and it is more severe and lasts longer in the elderly and immunocompromised. A combination of a burning sensation, severe pain even with light contact (allodynia), and an electric shock sensation occurs. In Korean medicine, post-herpetic neuralgia is viewed as a condition where intense inflammatory heat exhausts the nerve pathways, leaving behind clotted blood that obstructs the circulation of Qi and blood. It is characterized by slow nerve regeneration due to the combination of sticky heat and moisture remaining in the flank passages and the body's weakened recovery capacity. At Dongjedang, we use herbal medicine to expel remaining clotted blood and waste products from the body, along with pharmacopuncture to reduce inflammation and create an environment for nerve regeneration, and thread embedding to induce the regeneration of damaged tissues. We focus on preventing chronicity by supporting liver and kidney functions to restore the body's recovery ability.