Definition

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is a condition that affects polio survivors. It can lead to muscle weakness and joint pain. It can happen 10 to 40 years after having polio.

Causes

The exact cause of PPS is unknown. It may be due to nerve and muscle damage from the original polio infection.

Risk Factors

PPS is more common in women. Other things that may raise the risk are:

• Previous polio
• Severe original polio
• Older age during infection

Symptoms

Symptoms may be:

• Feeling tired
• Muscle weakness
• Muscle pain, twitches, or cramps
• Problems swallowing or breathing
• High sensitivity to heat or cold
• Voice changes
• Problems focusing
• Swelling in lower limbs

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. The doctor may check reflexes, muscles, and nerves. PPS may be hard to diagnose.

Tests are used to rule out other conditions. They may include:

• Electromyography—measures how well nerves and muscles work together
• Nerve conduction velocity—to check for nerve injury
• MRI scan—to look at body structures
• Muscle biopsy—to rule out other conditions

Treatment

The goal is ease symptoms and help the person function better.

Options may be:

• Assistive devices
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Weight loss, if overweight
• Medicines to ease muscle spasms, pain, and depression
• Occasionally, surgery—to correct conditions that impair function

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent PPS.