Ask a PT Response: "Treatment for paresis following herpes zoster infection includes analgesia for post-herpetic neuralgia, protection of the weakened muscles, maintenance of range-of-movement exercises, and a program of graduated strengthening exercises. General ankle ROM and isometric ankle strengthening exercises could be initially initiated with these patients. Treatment should be progressed as tolerated. Functional electrical stimulation could also be utilized to prevent muscular atrophy and to facilitate strengthening. Keep in mind that in most cases progress will more than likely be slow and may take up to 1 to 2 years to achieve desired outcomes. "