EFFECTS OF PHYSIOTHERAPY INTERVENTION ON QUALITY OF LIFE IN MASTECTOMIZED PATIENTS IN PALLIATIVE CARE

Abstract

This study aims to review the literature on the effects of physiotherapeutic interventions on the quality of life of mastectomized patients in palliative care. It is a literature review conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, and LILACS databases, including studies published between 2015 and 2025 that addressed the topics of mastectomy, palliative care, physiotherapy, and quality of life. Articles in Portuguese and English discussing the physiotherapeutic approach in patients undergoing mastectomy and receiving palliative care were included. Duplicated, incomplete, or unrelated studies were excluded. The results showed that breast cancer is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality among women, mainly affecting those aged 40 to 69 years. Surgical treatment, such as mastectomy, is often necessary for disease control, leading to significant physical, emotional, and social impacts. In palliative care, physiotherapy stands out as an essential strategy to promote quality of life, reduce pain and fatigue, prevent complications, and preserve patients’ functionality and emotional well-being. The study demonstrated that physiotherapeutic interventions are fundamental in the palliative care of mastectomized women, contributing to symptom relief, improved autonomy, and greater comfort during treatment.