Research shows that 5 to 30% of shingles patients have had motor and sensory neurons affected. In Understanding Neurotransmitters, a book by Walter Birkmayer, he discusses the neurotransmitters/nervous system in regards to the response to shingles. The spinal ganglia and motor neurons are attacked by the disease. Much of the pain is caused due to the pain receptors in the spinal cord that are triggered by the infection. 

 

In terms of action potential, shingles normally reduces the action potential in the sensory nerves and compound motor neurons. It often makes a decrease in amplitude and the conduction among nerves. The body doesn't however, experience nerve (sensory) abnormalities.