Algology
Algology, also known as pain medicine or pain science, is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of chronic (long-term) pain. The term “algology” is derived from the Greek word “algos”, meaning pain.
What Is Algology?
Algology is a branch of medicine that investigates the causes of chronic pain that may or may not be associated with an underlying disease and aims to treat this pain through medication, interventional procedures, or a multidisciplinary approach.
When Should You Consult an Algology Clinic?
Algology deals with chronic or complex pain conditions such as:
Pain related to lumbar and cervical disc herniation
Fibromyalgia
Migraine and chronic headaches
Cancer-related pain
Postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain after shingles)
Persistent pain after surgery
Diabetic neuropathy (nerve pain caused by diabetes)
Pain related to musculoskeletal disorders
Facial pain such as trigeminal neuralgia
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome – CRPS)
Treatment Methods Used in Algology
Medication therapy: Analgesics, antidepressants, antiepileptic drugs, etc.
Interventional procedures: Nerve blocks, radiofrequency treatments, epidural injections
Neuromodulation: Spinal cord stimulation
Physical therapy and rehabilitation (multidisciplinary approach)
Psychological support and cognitive-behavioral therapy, especially for chronic pain
When Should You Seek Help?
You should consider consulting an algology clinic if your pain:
Has lasted longer than 3 months,
Significantly affects your daily life,
Does not improve despite medication,
Has no clearly identified cause.
In such cases, applying to an algology (pain medicine) clinic is recommended.