Dr. Bui Cong Su, Medical Manager of the VNVC Vaccination System, explains that individuals with musculoskeletal disorders often experience chronic inflammation and prolonged immune dysfunction. Treatment with corticosteroids or immunosuppressants weakens the immune system, creating favorable conditions for the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) to reactivate and cause shingles.

"When shingles develops in someone with underlying musculoskeletal conditions, the risk of complications is higher than normal," Dr. Su stated.

Individuals with musculoskeletal conditions often experience more severe complications if they develop shingles. Illustrative photo: Vecteezy

Shingles causes prolonged nerve pain, making patients hesitant to move, reducing their physical activity, and limiting sun exposure, which leads to decreased vitamin D absorption. This makes them more susceptible to osteoporosis and fractures, especially in the hip and spine.

A Taiwanese study of over 11,000 shingles patients found that they had a nearly 5 times higher risk of osteoporosis compared to those without the disease. Notably, the risk increased to 4.76 times higher for those who developed postherpetic neuralgia.

Shingles also increases the risk of stroke in individuals with underlying musculoskeletal conditions, and they are more prone to severe complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, and vision and hearing impairments. A 2017 Taiwanese study of over 27,000 arthritis patients revealed a 2.3 times higher risk of stroke within 90 days of developing shingles, along with an 18% increase in hospitalization and mortality rates compared to those without shingles.

Beyond health impacts, shingles also increases treatment costs and prolongs recovery time. A 5-year study in the US, published in 2023, indicated that rheumatoid arthritis patients with shingles experienced longer hospital stays and incurred an additional 3,400 USD in treatment costs. Psoriatic arthritis patients also faced an average increase of 2,000 USD in treatment expenses, with 2 to 3 times more frequent doctor visits. Approximately 25% of these patients experienced skin damage in the affected area, complicating treatment.

Adults receiving the shingles vaccine at the VNVC Vaccination Center. Photo: Moc Mien

To prevent shingles and its complications, Dr. Su recommends vaccination. The vaccine is currently available for individuals aged 50 and above, or those 18 and older at high risk due to underlying conditions or immunosuppressive medications, including those with musculoskeletal disorders.

The vaccine, produced by GSK (Belgium), has a 97% efficacy rate in individuals aged 50 and above, and a 70% to 87% efficacy rate in those 18 and older with compromised immune systems due to underlying illnesses. It also reduces complications by over 90%. The vaccination schedule involves two doses administered 1 to 2 months apart.

Furthermore, individuals with musculoskeletal disorders should adhere to prescribed medications and follow their doctor's recommendations to maintain their health. They should also maintain a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet, adequate rest, stress management, and avoidance of stimulants like alcohol, beer, and tobacco. Regular light exercise and social activities are also recommended to improve mental well-being.

If you develop shingles, seek prompt medical treatment, keep the affected skin clean, and avoid rubbing or bursting blisters to prevent infection. Adequate sleep and abstaining from stimulants will also aid in a faster recovery.

Anh Ninh