Prácticas y representaciones en la carrera curativa del dolor crónico

Abstract

This paper describes and analizes the perceptions and actions of a group of patients with cronic pain (secuelae of a posherpetic neuropathy following an episode of Herpes Zoster viral infection) who attend the pain clinic in a public hospital in Mexico City (Hospital General de Mexico). The study also analizes the perceptions and actions taken by the algologist from the institution in charge of such patients. This study is developed from a medical anthropological approach. The information was derived from interviews with patients and medical doctors exploring the actual use of the curing systems in their care process.