Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a debilitating condition that often interferes with the daily lives of patients. Recently, several studies have reported evidence for the efficacy of the erector spinae plane block (ESPB) in the management of thoracic neuropathic or postoperative pain. The resolution of neuropathic pain after the ESPB suggests that both the dorsal and ventral rami of thoracic spinal nerves are affected by local anesthetic agents, which is thought to be the main mechanism of analgesia. Furthermore, the ESPB is a simple and safe method with a low complication rate. We report a case of successful application of the ESPB for pain management in thoracic PHN, which has been shown to have a poor response to other treatments.

Keywordschronic pain, erector spinae plane block, postherpetic neuralgia, thoracic