Post Polio Syndrome
Post Polio Syndrome is a late effect of polio. Post-polio syndrome is characterized by the following symptoms:
- unaccustomed fatigue
- muscle weakness
- respiratory difficulties
- muscle and joint pain
- intolerance to cold
- functional loss
Lifestyle changes, pacing and the use of adaptive equipment are the most effective ways to minimize the effects of Post Polio Syndrome.
Poliovirus can cause poliomyelitis in under-vaccinated children. Even children who seem to fully recover can later develop new muscle pain, weakness, or paralysis as adults. This can occur 15 to 40 years later.
Associations/Groups:
Post Polio Health International
Mission is to enhance the lives and independence of polio survivors and home ventilator users through education, advocacy, research and networking.
4207 Lindell Blvd, #110
Saint Louis, MO 63108-2930
Phone: 314-534-0475
Email: info@post-polio.org
The National Center on Physical Activity and Disability (NCPAD)
Provides information and resources for all types of physical activity, disability and aging info, self-care, healthy eating and more.
4000 Ridgeway Drive
Birmingham, AL 35209
Toll Free: 800-900-8086
Email: email@nchpad.org
International Rehabilitation Center for Polio at Spaulding (IRCP)
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
300 First Avenue
Boston, MA 02129
Phone: 617-952-5000
Contact Form
Other Information:
Post-Polio Syndrome Fact Sheet
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Post-polio syndrome (PPS) usually occurs 15-40 years after a person has polio, an infectious viral disease. PPS is believed to be the result of deterioration of the motor neurons over many years that leads to loss of muscle strength and dysfunction. I
Understanding Post-Polio Syndrome
Easter Seals info: Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is a condition that affects polio survivors years after they’ve recovered from their initial bout with the disease. An interval of 30 to 40 years usually elapses before the first PPS symptoms occur, but intervals as short as eight years and as long as 71 years have been documented.
Fact Sheet last updated on: 8/27/2024
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