Adult Neuro: Postpolio Syndrome

Question 1

Adult neuro: postpolio syndrome

What is poliomyelitis? Postpolio syndrome?

Answer 1

Poliovirus attacks motor neurons in the SC and brain resulting in asymmetrical flaccid muscle paresis LE more affected than UE.

in the 80’s, polio survivors developed new weakness (35 years later) in muscles previously affected by polio & in unaffected muscles. Metabolic exhaustion of giant motor units with pruning of axon sprouts to decrease the # of muscle fibers innervated by a single motor unit

Question 2

Adult neuro: postpolio syndrome

Postpolio Syndrome - Prognosis

Answer 2

Symptoms of PPS slowly progressive

Question 3

Adult neuro: postpolio syndrome

Postpolio Syndrome – Clinical Manifestations:

Answer 3

• Fatigue: most common, decreased muscular endurance, exhaustion
• New muscle weakness: asymmetric & scattered, muscle atrophy
• Muscle pain: high intensity
• Swallowing dysfunction
• Gait disturbances: vaulting gait
• ADL difficulties
• Respiratory dysfunction
• Sleep disorders
• Cold intolerance

Question 4

Adult neuro: postpolio syndrome

outcomes measures for postpolio syndrome

Answer 4

• No diagnosis specific measures for postpolio
• TUG, 6-minute walk test

Question 5

Adult neuro: postpolio syndrome

Exercise recommendations for postpolio syndrome

Answer 5

• Strengthening exercises should be non-fatiguing
• Decrease workload of muscles
• Muscle & Joint Pain
• Psychological considerations