Post-Polio Syndrome Clinic
ºìÐÓÖ±²¥app Neuroscience and Pain Institute
ºìÐÓÖ±²¥app East Hills Outpatient Center
1450 Scalp Avenue, Second Floor
Johnstown, PA 15904
Phone: (814) 534-7746
Post-Polio Syndrome (PPS) is a neurological condition that results in weakness, fatigue and/or pain in joints that were affected by polio. An estimated 20 percent of all polio survivors will develop additional disabilities due to PPS.
ºìÐÓÖ±²¥app Health System offers an effective, integrative approach to diagnosing and treating Post-Polio Syndrome, combining traditional medicine, complementary healing methods, patient education, and research to help individuals lessen or slow the progression of symptoms.
Risk Factors
- Confirmed history of acute paralytic polio and recovery from polio, followed by at least 15 years of stability before post-polio symptoms first appear
- Poor nutrition
- Excessive weight gain
- Smoking
- Alcohol and/or substance abuse
Symptoms
- Fatigue or frequent feelings of exhaustion
- Weakness or loss of muscle strength
- Gradual or new pain in muscles and joints
- Shortness of breath
- Sleeping problems
- Headaches
- Swallowing difficulty
- Decreased ability to tolerate cold temperatures
Diagnosis
ºìÐÓÖ±²¥app's team compiles and reviews a detailed clinical history on each program participant, and performs a comprehensive physical exam. Additional diagnostic tests, including electromyogram (EMG) and/or nerve conduction studies, MRIs, sleep studies and/or comprehensive pulmonary function tests, may be performed to exclude other medical problems that could cause PPS-like symptoms. Referrals to other specialists such as neuropsychologists, respiratory therapists, or nutritionists may also be recommended.
Treatment
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Nutrition counseling
- Pain control and/or the use of braces and other orthotic equipment
- Stress management
- Aromatherapy
- Chronic disease self-management.