How long does post herpetic neuralgia last?

[Gardenfan]

I am a very NEW Member aged 78. I developed shingles 2 months ago, the rash started in my lower right back, spread into right thigh down 2 nerve pathways according to doctor. I was given the anti-viral medication, but I had unbearable pain (screaming into pillow so poor husband couldn't hear so much.) Gabapentin 100mg 3 itmes a day prescribed, still no pain relief, then 300mg three times a day began to help. In desperation visited Chinese acupuncturist twice which gave instant relief in that I could actually touch my thigh without wincing. Still on Gabapenti and pain seems to be decreasing, but I still get sudden stabbing pains alongside the constant pain. I don't want to be on Gabapentin for too long, but should I wait until the pain has gone completely before weaning myself off it (with doctor's advice on how to do this)?

PS I also have Perepheral Neuropathy in my feet and legs due to Diabetes Type 2 and have found gabepentin to be better than my prescribed nightly 100mg Duloxetine for this night time pain.

[Prib]

I had to take Veltrax for mine and I take it daily now

[Gardenfan in reply to Prib]

Thanks

[Kavib]

I had nerve pain which was described as siatica and I was going to have a back operation but I visited a recommended acupuncturist and had 10 sessions but after the 6 session I noticed a huge difference and the pain hasn’t come back after 3 years!

I’m not ok t sure that 2 sessions will help but ask your GP to refer you. I hope can get it sorted x

[Gardenfan in reply to Kavib]

I don't think our GP practice would be able to refer me for acupuncture but no harm in trying. I paid £50 for the first consultation after that £40 per session. I will go back for more but as I'm on a fixed pension it is a big chunk out of my income. I hope GP will see the savings to NHS through fewer drugs. Pain a lot better but still constant but mostly bearable. Thanks for sharing your story.