Pain Management: Understanding It, Treating It, and Living Fully Again

Pain is a universal experience — but that doesn’t make it normal.

It can appear after an injury, illness, or for no clear reason. And while pain is the body’s way of saying “something’s wrong,” sometimes that alarm stays on longer than it should.

The result: persistent pain, physical limitations, emotional exhaustion, and the feeling that nothing will ever be the same again.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Algology, also known as Pain Medicine, is the specialty that helps you regain control. Its goal is not just to “turn off the pain,” but to understand why it happens and treat it at its source.

What Does a Pain Specialist (Algologist) Do?

A pain specialist — or algologist — is a physician trained to identify, evaluate, and treat both acute and chronic pain through an integrated, personalized approach.

They look at physical, neurological, emotional, and social factors, and create individualized plans that may include medication, physical therapy, minimally invasive procedures, psychological support, and movement-based therapies.

Unlike over-the-counter painkillers that offer temporary relief, pain management aims for sustainable results and a better quality of life.

Types of Pain Treated by a Pain Specialist

1. Acute pain: sudden and typically linked to a clear cause (injury, surgery, inflammation). It usually resolves once the body heals.
2. Chronic pain: lasts for more than three months and can become a condition in itself.
3. Neuropathic pain: caused by nerve damage or irritation.
4. Somatic or muscular pain: from muscle strain, joint issues, or tension.
5. Visceral pain: originating from internal organs, such as abdominal or pelvic pain.

The right treatment depends on the type, origin, and intensity of your pain.

Pain Through Different Life Stages and Lifestyles

Pain doesn’t affect everyone the same way. Algology adapts to each patient’s circumstances.

Older Adults

As we age, tissues lose elasticity and joints wear down. Back, knee, and hip pain may seem like “just aging,” but in many cases, it can be treated or slowed down.

Proper pain management restores mobility, independence, and better sleep.

Athletes

Training through pain isn’t always a sign of discipline — it may mean overuse or injury.

Pain specialists can help with recovery therapies, temporary nerve blocks, or regenerative protocols.

Recognizing pain early prevents more serious injuries and unnecessary surgeries.

Patients with Chronic Conditions

People living with diabetes, cancer, arthritis, or autoimmune diseases often experience ongoing pain from inflammation or nerve damage.

Pain management offers personalized plans combining targeted medication, psychological support, and functional rehabilitation.

When Pain Needs Medical Attention

Some pain is temporary, but other kinds require professional care. Pay attention if:

• It lasts more than three months or keeps coming back.
• Over-the-counter medication doesn’t help.
• It interferes with your sleep, work, or daily life.
• You feel numbness, burning, or weakness.
• You’ve changed how you move or sit to “avoid the pain.”
• It’s affecting your mood or relationships.

If you checked more than one box, it’s not “toughness” — it’s a warning sign. Take the next step and book your appointment today with Dr. Ricardo Plancarte, pain management specialist, who will be at Hospital Costamed Cozumel from November 20 to 22, 2025.

How Pain Is Treated Professionally

Pain management is never one-size-fits-all. Treatments are tailored to your cause and tolerance. Common strategies include:

1. Medications, prescribed safely and closely monitored.
2. Nerve blocks or radiofrequency ablation for localized pain relief without surgery.
3. Physical and movement therapy, supervised by trained physiotherapists.
4. Psychological support to break the cycle between pain, anxiety, and stress.
5. Education and self-care, with techniques to prevent relapse and improve everyday comfort.

Common Myths About Pain

“Pain is just part of getting older.”
False. Chronic pain is never normal and can always be treated.

“They’ll just give me strong medications.”
Incorrect. Pain specialists use multiple approaches, not only medication.

“It’s better to tolerate pain than depend on drugs.”
Actually, ignoring pain can lead to more physical and emotional harm.

An early diagnosis can change the course of your health and help you regain your independence.

Pain is not a punishment — it’s a message.
And the good news is that relief is possible. Advances in modern pain medicine can help you move better, rest better, and live better.

Seeking help isn’t giving up — it’s taking back control of your life.

And if you’re ready, a pain management specialist can guide you step by step toward a more active, balanced, and fulfilling life.