Finding Relief from Post-Herpetic Neuralgia
Finding Relief from Post-Herpetic Neuralgia: John’s Story of How Acupuncture Transformed His Life
Living with post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) can be an excruciating experience. The relentless burning pain that persists long after a bout of shingles can severely impact one’s quality of life. I know this all too well, as I battled with PHN for months, struggling to find relief. However, my journey took a transformative turn when I discovered the incredible benefits of acupuncture through the skilled hands of Dr. Melanie Morrill Ac. I want to share my personal experience with PHN and explain how acupuncture became a life-changing solution that allowed me to regain control and embrace the joys of everyday life, like wearing a shirt without pain and playing catch with my beloved grandson.
Before developing into my acupuncture journey, it’s essential to grasp the impact of PHN. PHN is a complication of shingles, a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus that causes chickenpox. Shingles typically manifests as a painful rash, usually on one side of the body, but it can also occur on the face or other areas. While the shingles rash eventually fades away, for some unfortunate individuals, the pain lingers, resulting in PHN.
I contracted shingles on my right side, and despite receiving prompt medical treatment, the pain persisted long after the rash had disappeared. The burning sensation was relentless, making it unbearable to wear clothes, sleep, or even engage in daily activities that I used to take for granted. I couldn’t play catch with my grandson because my shirt would rub on my side and the burning pain was overwhelming. The excruciating pain not only affected my physical well-being but also took a toll on my mental and emotional health. Desperate for a solution, I embarked on a quest to find relief.
I went to my family doctor, a neurologist, and another specialist in Edmonton and none of them were able to help me. They said that I just needed to live with the pain. Eventually, my wife came across an article in the paper and she said I had to go see Dr. Melanie Morrill Ac, a renowned acupuncturist known for her specialization in pain management.
During my initial consultation with Dr. Melanie Ac, she attentively listened to my medical history and the challenges I faced due to post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). She explained what was happening to my nerves and what she could do to help.
After starting treatment, I started to notice gradual improvements. The burning pain, which had once consumed my every waking moment, began to subside. I could wear shirts without discomfort and engage in activities that I had long abandoned due to the pain. Simple joys, like playing with my grandson, became a reality once again. Acupuncture had not only relieved my pain but had given me back the life I thought I had lost forever. There is something really special about being able to play catch with my ten-year-old grandson.
Acupuncture with Dr. Melanie Morrill Ac has undoubtedly been a turning point in my PHN journey. Beyond the physical relief it provided, acupuncture got me back to being a grandpa. I am feeling so much better and I am so glad my wife made me keep trying to find help even after all the other Doctors said there was nothing to do.
Are you living with Post Herpetic Neuralgia? Are you ready to play catch with your grandson again like John? Call 587-879-7122 today to schedule your consultation today.
By Melanie Morrill Accessible Acupuncture
