Professor Jian-qiao FANG's experience in postherpetic neuralgia treated with acupuncture and moxibustion

Abstract

This article introduces the clinical experience of Professor Jian-qiao FANG in treatment of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) with acupuncture and moxibustion. Jian-qiao FANG believes that PHN is characterized by “stagnation” and “deficiency” in pathogenesis and it is treated by “resolving stasis” and “replenishing for deficiency”. Electroacupuncture is predominated in treatment and the combined regimen of various techniques of acupuncture and moxibustion is adopted in therapeutic strategy. According to the pain characteristics of patients, the acupuncture and moxibustion prescription is drafted for resolving stasis and masses, replenishing for deficiency and regulating the mind. The acupoints include Ashi points, Jiaji (EX-B2), Hegu (LI4), Waiguan (TE5), Zusanli (ST36), Sanyinjiao (SP6), Shenting (GV24), Baihui (GV20) and Sishencong (EX-HN1). In treatment with electroacupuncture, the stimulation parameters are selected flexibly according to different pain characteristics. The frequency of 2/100 Hz is the first option, 100 Hz is used for the acute seizure and 2 Hz is for mild pain. After electric stimulation, the treatment with roller type of dermal needle and moxibustion can be applied to ensure clinical efficacy.