Research progress on different acupuncture methods for postherpetic neuralgia

Objectives: this paper first makes an attempt to integrate and analyze different acupuncture methods in the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia. Research results of different acupuncture methods for analgesia are also summarized in this paper so that guidance and consideration for future clinical and scientific research could be put forward. Methods: On the basis of etiology and pathogenesis of Chinese medicine, we collected and collated relevant literature accessed through databases such as CNKI, Wanfang, Weipu and Pubmed. The progress of acupuncture in the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia was summarized. Results: Different acupuncture methods, such as milli-needle acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, fire acupuncture, acupuncture cupping and other TCM specialties have been reported to effectively relieve postherpetic neuralgia, reducing patients' pain and burden and improve their quality of life. Conclusion: Acupuncture methods have good efficacy along with unique advantages in the treatment of herpes zoster postherpetic neuralgia.