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Poliomyelitis.
Jasmine C Menant1, Simon C Gandevia1
1Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Handbook of Clinical Neurology
|November 29, 2018
Summary
Post-polio syndrome affects individuals over 60, causing muscle weakness and falls. Research is needed to develop effective interventions for polio survivors to improve function and prevent falls.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Poliomyelitis, caused by an enterovirus, damages motor neurons, leading to muscle weakness or paralysis.
- Postpolio syndrome (PPS) affects polio survivors over 60, characterized by fatigue, muscle weakness, and pain.
- PPS significantly increases fall risk in survivors due to impaired balance and gait.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the clinical relevance of interventions for polio survivors.
- To identify the lack of evidence-based studies for postpolio syndrome management.
- To suggest potential interventions for improving function and preventing falls.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on poliomyelitis, postpolio syndrome, and fall risk.
- Analysis of functional impairments in polio survivors.
- Identification of potential therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Polio survivors experience significant functional decline, including reduced muscle strength and impaired balance.
- Fall incidence is up to four times higher in polio survivors compared to age-matched peers.
- There is a critical need for evidence-based interventions to manage PPS and reduce fall risk.
Conclusions:
- Interventions are clinically relevant for polio survivors to improve function, reduce disability, and prevent falls.
- Balance training, cognitive behavioral therapy, and orthoses may be beneficial.
- Muscle-strengthening programs require careful design to avoid exacerbating motor neuron dysfunction.