$Unique_ID{BRK02068}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Post-Polio Syndrome, Exercise Programs, and Your Doctor's Advice}
$Subject{fatigue weakness joints joint polio Post-Polio Syndrome Type A
personality muscles muscle isotonic exercises exercise program}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Post-Polio Syndrome, Exercise Programs, and Your Doctor's Advice


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QUESTION:  Recently, I have begun to feel fatigued and weak, and sometimes my
joints become sore.  I suffered from polio more than 30 years ago, and my
physician suspects that this is the cause of my problem.  I know I licked it
then, and can do so again, but I have been cautioned against starting an
exercise program that I am sure will get me back on my feet in short order.
Does this advise make any sense to you?  I would very much appreciate your
"second opinion" in my case.

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ANSWER:  It is hard to offer a full fledged opinion with so little information
to go on, but I can provide you with some information that may be useful to
you, and help you understand your doctor's point of view.  I suspect your
physician is considering the diagnosis of "Post-Polio Syndrome" in your case.
The diagnosis is made entirely based upon the history and the clinical
findings of your examinations.
     The condition usually is seen after a symptom free period of 20 to 40
years in patients who previously suffered from polio.  It is most common in
people who contracted polio after the age of 10, had a serious disease that
required hospitalization for treatment, and where the disease affected all 4
extremities.  It starts with the symptoms you have had; weakness, fatigue and
joint pain.  It is also more common in people with Type A, aggressive
personalities.  It strikes only at muscles that were affected during the
original, acute illness, even if they were asymptomatic at the time.  These
muscles may now be weakened and without reserves to deal with your present day
needs.
     Exercise may not be the answer for these muscles, and can possibly weaken
them further.  Initially treatment will be aimed at conserving the muscles by
rest or assisting them with braces and other devices.  Exercise may be added
after testing the muscles to determine its reserve capacity.  The muscle
should be strong enough to withstand more than the force of gravity, and
should not weaken after a walk of 1-2 minutes.  Only then can a program of
isotonic exercises be prescribed to assist in strengthening the muscle.  While
your determination is admirable, it may be the exercise program you are
considering that is wrong for your situation, and the reason your doctor has
cautioned you.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.