Herpes zoster can be categorized as “snake sores” in Chinese medicine, and can be treated with acupuncture, cupping, and fire acupuncture under the guidance of a professional physician.
Snake sores begin with burning and tingling of the affected skin, redness, followed by clusters of corn-grain-sized papules, mostly arranged in bands, mostly occurring on one side of the body, with the waist, the most common part of the dorsal region. After the herpes disappears, some patients may remain in pain, which may last for several months or longer.
The treatment is based on diarrhea and detoxification, and pain relief through the collaterals. The main points are localized A Shi points (points with obvious acidity, numbness, distension and pain sensation), the corresponding segment of the lesion and the hand, foot and Shaoyang meridian points. Commonly used acupoints include Ahshi points, pinch spine points, Zhigou, Yanglingquan, Xingma and so on.
Fire cupping, moxibustion, and fire needling can also be performed by an acupuncturist at the location of herpes. Pay attention to rest, strengthen nutrition, should not eat fat, sweet and spicy food during the treatment period, the diet should be light, and avoid eating seafood and hairy things. Keep the skin hygiene of herpes area.
When herpes needs acupuncture treatment, you need to go to a traditional Chinese medicine hospital, after the physician to clarify the condition for individualized diagnosis and treatment, do not self-acupuncture.