Introduction:

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by systemic inflammation, which affects people's quality of life. This study aims to understand the quality of life and the impact of physiotherapy on individuals with SLE.

Methodology:

This descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional study included patients with SLE registered at the "Lupus del Paraguay" Foundation who received physiotherapy. A non-probabilistic convenience sampling method was used. The SF-36 questionnaire was used, along with information related to physiotherapy interventions. Data were analyzed and processed using Microsoft Excel 2016®.

Results:

Forty-one individuals with SLE were studied. The highest score was found in the "physical function" category, with 58.29 points. Conversely, the components of “emotional role,” “vitality,” and “physical role” scored 42.27, 43.0, and 45.73, respectively, indicating poorer health in these latter areas. Regarding physiotherapy, it received an average rating of “good.” Among the treatment techniques, therapeutic physical exercises predominated at 42%, followed by electrotherapy and/or physical agents such as thermotherapy at 33%.

Conclusion:

An adequate quality of life in terms of physical and mental health is evident, but with emotional, physical, and vitality limitations. Physiotherapy is positively valued, with physical exercise being highlighted as safe and beneficial for fatigue. The post-pandemic context may have intensified inequalities, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach combining medical care with psycho-emotional and social support.

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