Leech Therapy for Postherpetic Neuralgia

Pilot Study on the Influence of Leech Therapy on Pain and Sensory Processing in Patients With Postherpetic Neuralgia

The purpose of this study is to investigate, whether leech therapy for the treatment of postherpetic pain improves pain and sensory function.

Therefore 20 patients with PHN undergoing leech therapy at the investigators outpatient clinic will be included in this observational trial.

see above

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 to 85 years of age
• >6 months thoracal postherpetic neuralgia
• informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• if leech therapy is contraindicated
• physical and mental disability to participate in the study examinations