Women with breast cancer in the post-surgical context: self-perception of the effects of Physiotherapy on body image

roduction: Body image (BI) is a critical aspect for women with breast cancer, as it impacts both appearance and functionality. Despite the importance of physiotherapy in improving BI, studies on women's perceptions of its effects on BI are limited. Objective: To evaluate the self-perception of post-surgical breast cancer patients regarding the effects of physiotherapy on their BI and its relationship with functionality, anxiety, and depression. Methods: A pre-experimental study involving 35 women who underwent breast cancer surgery, assessed before and after 10-12 physiotherapy sessions using the Body Image Scale, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales. Results: A greater negative impact on BI was observed in younger women (p=0.027) and those with higher education (p=0.029), which correlated with greater upper limb dysfunction (p