Unconventional Pain Management for People With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

People with chronic pain account for 65% of the population diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE is a fast-growing medical autoimmune disease responsible for 16,000 new cases yearly. More than 60% experience chronic pain due to arthritis related conditions causing daily distress and an overall diminished quality of life. Methods of pain management have helped relieve the psychosocial and physical effects pain causes on individuals. The purpose of this review was to explore methods of pain interventions used among people with SLE. A systematic literature search was conducted to examine methods of pain management among people with SLE. Seven articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Findings suggest that pain management methods such as cognitive behavior therapy, education interventions, physical exercise, expressive writing, benefit finding writing, and acupuncture have been helpful in pain management among people with SLE. Benefits of utilizing these pain management methods include improved physical activity, social function, pain reduction, better sleep, and improved overall quality of life. Health and mental health professionals can consider these methods when developing a comprehensive pain treatment plan for people with SLE.