10 tips for living with post-polio syndrome

• April 20, 2024

The Mexican Organization for the Knowledge of the Late Effects of Polio (OMCETPAC) recommends a series of Practical tips to facilitate the life and integration of people who already suffer or who may suffer the late effects of polio and the post-polio syndrome .

The top 10 are:

1. Do not force the organism to the limit of the capabilities of each person; the indicated thing is not to get to feel pain and fatigue, otherwise, the person has exceeded and probably it will cost him to recover.
2. Whether trips or falls frequently , it is time to consult with the specialist to determine if you need support to walk (cane, lifeline, wheelchair, or orthopedic devices). Use the support as long as possible since falls at home are often frequent.
3. It is necessary to provide other devices auxiliaries to facilitate their mobility : installing bars in the bathroom to hold onto when entering or leaving the shower or tub, or using a special non-slip seat for bathing, are some examples
4. Caring for and keeping in good condition the auxiliary devices , that the cleats of the cane are not worn, or that the lifeline or wheelchair is safe.
5. When walking, try look at the ground that is stepped on : slips on wet surfaces, irregular or with loose objects, represent a risk.
6. Learn to get out of bed . The doctor will indicate which is the best way.
7. Change posture to avoid discomfort and pain, particularly in front of the computer. OMCETPAC advises placing an alarm clock and programming a maximum of one hour. The monitor screen should be at eye level so as not to tilt the head up or down. In your case, use the back-lumbar corset when using the computer.
8. The wheelchair however comfortable they are, they cause numbness. It is advisable to change the position or, if possible, change to an armchair for a few minutes.
9. In case of a long car trip, it is better to protect yourself with a orthopedic corset since the movement can tire the vertebrae.
10. Never watch television from bed, especially if there are problems at the cervical level. This position forces the patient to make small efforts with the neck to accommodate the vision and these produce pains in that area, which extend to the shoulder, back and head.

Video Medicine: TREATMENT OF POST POLIO SYNDROME (April 2024).