Post-Polio Syndrome Treatment

Because there is no cure for post-polio syndrome, treatment is focused on relieving the symptoms. Current treatment options include lifestyle changes (such as pacing daily activities to avoid rapid muscle tiring) and support (such as counseling). Researchers are actively looking for better post-polio syndrome treatment.

 

An Overview of Post-Polio Syndrome Treatment

Currently, there is no cure for post-polio syndrome. Therefore, treatment of post-polio syndrome is focused on relieving the symptoms. Some of the treatment options include lifestyle changes and support. Research scientists continue to actively look for other post-polio syndrome treatment options.
 
Post-Polio Syndrome Treatment: Lifestyle Changes
For post-polio syndrome treatment, lifestyle changes can include:
 
 
  • Using recommended mobility aids, ventilator equipment, and revised activities of daily living
 
  • Avoiding activities that cause pain or fatigue that lasts more than 10 minutes
 
  • Pacing daily activities to avoid rapid muscle tiring and total body exhaustion.
 
Also, make sure to seek medical advice from healthcare providers who are experienced in treating neuromuscular disorders. They can provide additional suggestions for living with post-polio syndrome. Do not attribute all signs and symptoms to the prior poliovirus infection.
 
Support as Post-Polio Syndrome Treatment
Learning about post-polio syndrome is important for polio survivors and their families. Support groups that encourage self-help, group participation, and positive action can be helpful. For some, individual or family counseling may be needed to adjust to the late effects of poliomyelitis, because experiencing new symptoms and using assistive devices may bring back distressing memories of the original poliovirus.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD