Early Application Of Salvia Miltiorrhiza At Huatuojiaji Points Reduces Incidence Of Post-Herpetic Neuralgia

Objective: This study aimed to investigate whether injection of salvia miltiorrhiza at huatuojiaji points in treating acute herpes zoster would reduce the intensity and duration of pain and incidence of post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). Methods: A total of 104 patients, over 50 years old, were randomized to receive either saline (Arm 1) or salvia miltiorrhiza (Arm 2) injections at huatuojiaji points in addition to standard treatment. Visual analogue scale and total amount of analgesics (gabapentin and tramadol) were recorded during the initial visit, 1st, 3rd and 6th week after injection and 3rd and 6th month after rash onset, respectively. In the 3rd and 6th months after onset, PHN was assessed using Douleur Neuropathique 4 Questions. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using Medical Outcomes Study Questionnaire Short-Form 36. Results: Compared with Arm 1, Arm 2 had much lower scores of visual analogue scale at all follow up time points (P<0.001) and less incidence of PHN, after 3 and 6 months (both P<0.05). Additionally, there was a significant reduction in doses of gabapentin and tramadol in Arm 2 beginning the third week (P<0.001). Improvement experienced in Arm 2 was greater than in Arm 1, after 3 and 6 months (P<0.05). No serious adverse effects were reported during the study. Conclusion: Injection of salvia miltiorrhiza at huatuojiaji points can reduce incidence of PHN, decrease the intensity of pain, and shorten pain duration.