Management of a patient with post-polio syndrome.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the current understanding of the management of patients with post-polio syndrome (PPS) and relate the research to a case study.


METHODS
Standard neurology textbooks, current review and research articles, and a case study.


CONCLUSIONS
More than 15 years following a diagnosis of poliomyelitis, a new onset of weakness, fatigue, joint pain, decreased endurance, muscle atrophy, gait disturbance, respiratory and swallowing problems, cold intolerance, and difficulties with activities of daily living might indicate a neurologic disorder called PPS.


CONCLUSIONS
Non-post-polio causes of weakness, fatigue or pain must be excluded before making a diagnosis of PPS. Approaches to management vary depending on the symptoms and level of disability. Reducing physical and emotional stress, energy conservation, adequate rest, modification of work and home environments, joint protection, and the use of orthoses, adaptive equipment, or mobility aids can reduce fatigue and preserve function.
Halbritter
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United States Navy Nurse Corps, Naval Hospital, Camp Pendleton, CA, USA. tjhalbritt@aol.com
D000368:Aged; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005221:Fatigue; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D018908:Muscle Weakness; D016262:Postpoliomyelitis Syndrome / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D013997:Time Factors