THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CUPPING THERAPY AND INTERLEUKIN-6 LEVELS IN PATIENTS WITH SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS IN REMISSION EXPERIENCING PAIN: A SCOPING REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Pain management in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) patients is complex due to the diverse nature of pain and the potential side effects of medicine. Alternative approaches such as physical therapy, mind-body techniques, and complementary therapies show potential in reducing pain and improving overall well-being. A collaborative and personalized pain management plan, involving healthcare providers from multiple disciplines, is critical to addressing the complex challenges associated with pain in SLE patients. Cupping, has been shown to reduce pain complaints. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) as one of the biomarkers in pain and SLE. Limited knowledge about the impact of cupping therapy on IL-6 levels in remission SLE patients who experience pain requires in-depth research. Objective: to understand the effect of cupping on pain and inflammation management based on changes in IL-6 levels. Method: literature study using Publish or Perish application, indexed by Scopus, title "SLE Remission"; "Pain in SLE" Inclusion criteria: free and complete access, limited to review literature in English, period 2018-2023. Articles titled "IL-6 SLE", "Interleukin 6 SLE", "Cupping Interleukin 6", "Cupping IL-6", and "Cupping" with the keywords "IL-6" or "Interleukin-6" with similar inclusion criteria, but covering all types of articles. Results: title "SLE Remission", two articles;  "Pain in SLE" two articles; "Cupping Pain", nine articles;  "IL-6 SLE" three articles; "Cupping" with the keyword "IL-6", four articles. Conclusion: wet cupping has potential anti-inflammatory effects on musculoskeletal conditions and may affect IL-6 levels in SLE remission patients, while the association between IL-6, dry cupping, and pain in remitted SLE patients still requires further research.