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Post Polio Syndrome - Management & Treatment in Primary

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Physiotherapy and <strong>Post</strong> <strong>Polio</strong> <strong>Syndrome</strong> 27<br />

Aerobic exercise<br />

Prior polio <strong>in</strong>dividuals have been shown to require greater energy<br />

9, 10<br />

expenditure <strong>in</strong> everyday activities such as walk<strong>in</strong>g and cycl<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Cardiorespiratory de-condition<strong>in</strong>g of prior polio subjects has been<br />

reported especially <strong>in</strong> those who are non-ambulatory. 42 Dean and Ross18 reported an improvement <strong>in</strong> energy cost and movement economy<br />

follow<strong>in</strong>g modified low <strong>in</strong>tensity (55-70% of age predicted maximum<br />

heart rates) aerobic tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g on a treadmill 30-40 m<strong>in</strong>utes, 3 times a week<br />

for 6 weeks.<br />

<strong>Management</strong> of pa<strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Management</strong> of pa<strong>in</strong> is dependent on the aetiology and aggravat<strong>in</strong>g<br />

factors present with each <strong>in</strong>dividual. It is important to identify the<br />

type of pa<strong>in</strong> present<strong>in</strong>g as described and tailor treatment appropriately.<br />

Physiotherapeutic management of pa<strong>in</strong> should be cognisant of any<br />

pharmaceutical management of pa<strong>in</strong>, e.g. <strong>in</strong>jection or analgesia.<br />

Interventions that may alleviate pa<strong>in</strong> are summarised <strong>in</strong> Box 7.<br />

box 7: PhysiotheraPy <strong>in</strong>terventions For Pa<strong>in</strong> management<br />

Identification of the cause of pa<strong>in</strong><br />

Modification of activity levels<br />

Weight reduction<br />

Use of aids and appliances to relieve or support weak muscles and jo<strong>in</strong>ts<br />

Electrophysical agents<br />

Stretch<strong>in</strong>g exercises / Strengthen<strong>in</strong>g exercises<br />

<strong>Post</strong>ural re-education<br />

Correction of gait problems<br />

Hydrotherapy<br />

Modification of lifestyle and activity levels<br />

Muscular ach<strong>in</strong>g and cramp<strong>in</strong>g are thought to be as a result of muscle<br />

overuse and should be avoided. 16 Reduction <strong>in</strong> activity levels, regular<br />

rest periods (pac<strong>in</strong>g), weight reduction and use of assistive devices can<br />

help. 43<br />

PPS Mngt and Treat.<strong>in</strong>db 27 02/07/2007 16:07:51

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