Contribuições da Terapia Ocupacional na Funcionalidade e Qualidade de Vida em Adultos com Dor Crônica

Nicole Colin Ramalho; Bárbara de Fátima Depole

doi:10.36489/saudecoletiva.2026v17i109p20274-20289

Authors

Nicole Colin Ramalho São Paulo State University “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” (UNESP) https://orcid.org/0009-0001-3898-9761
Bárbara de Fátima Depole São Paulo State University “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” (UNESP) https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4852-7912

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36489/saudecoletiva.2026v17i109p20274-20289

Keywords:

Chronic Pain, Occupational Therapy, Quality of Life, Primary Health Care, Functional Performance

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the impacts of chronic pain on quality of life and occupational performance in adults in Primary Health Care, as well as the contributions of Occupational Therapy. Method: An integrative literature review was conducted in PubMed, SciELO, and the Virtual Health Library, from 2020 to 2025, including 31 empirical studies published in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Case reports, duplicates, and studies outside the defined timeframe were excluded. Results: Chronic pain was associated with psychological distress, anxiety, and depression, leading to disruptions in occupational roles and restrictions in social participation. Occupational Therapy supports the re-signification of daily life and effective pain management, promoting autonomy, participation, and treatment adherence in individuals with chronic conditions. Conclusion: Occupational Therapy plays a fundamental role in Primary Health Care by promoting interventions focused on functionality, autonomy, and participation, contributing to comprehensive care and improving the overall quality of life of individuals with chronic pain.

Author Biographies

Nicole Colin Ramalho, São Paulo State University “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” (UNESP)

Occupational Therapist graduated from Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP) and currently pursuing a postgraduate degree in Mental Health. Has a professional background in functional rehabilitation and health promotion across different levels of care, with experience in Occupational Health, Neurology, Gerontology, and Orthopedics.

Currently, is part of the team at a Chronic Pain Reference Center within the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), working in assessment and intervention focused on occupational performance, functionality, and quality of life in patients with chronic conditions. Her practice and research focus on the intersection between physical rehabilitation and psychosocial aspects, using approaches such as assistive technology, environmental adaptation, and occupational management. She implements adaptive and compensatory strategies that optimize functional performance, promoting autonomy and engagement in meaningful activities. She is dedicated to studying the impacts of limiting and chronic conditions on daily life, with an emphasis on the elderly population and mental health within Occupational Therapy.

Bárbara de Fátima Depole, São Paulo State University “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” (UNESP)

Bárbara de Fátima Depole é terapeuta ocupacional desde 2013, pós-graduada em Saúde Mental pela FACIS e doutora em Terapia Ocupacional pela UFSCar. É docente da UNESP (campus Marília) e colaboradora no PPGGC/UFSCar. Possui experiência no contexto hospitalar, com atuação voltada à integralidade do cuidado e às práticas interprofissionais. Coordena projetos de extensão com populações em situação de vulnerabilidade, incluindo pessoas em situação de rua e a população trans e travesti. Desenvolve pesquisas nas áreas de saúde coletiva, direitos humanos e políticas públicas, com ênfase em determinantes sociais da saúde, interseccionalidades e cuidado à população LGBTQIA+. É autora de livro e de publicações voltadas à clínica ampliada e ao cuidado no SUS e na assistência social.

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