Post-Poliomyelitis Syndrome: Not Just a Late-Effect of Poliomyelitis due to Aging

This presentation will focus on the differentiation between the late effects of poliomyelitis and the post-polio syndrome, both conditions involving the anterior horn cell motor neuron. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – another anterior horn cell motor neuron condition often encountered at the PALTC setting – will be briefly compared for neurophysiologic clarity. The severe psychosocial stress of having polio, aging, and the post-polio syndrome will be acknowledged. The discussion will unfold through epidemiology, pathophysiology, natural history, definition, diagnosis, management, and rehabilitation. Emerging practice and gaps in evidence-based knowledge will also be discussed.

Learning Objectives:

At the completion of this session, learners will be able to:

• Define the diagnostic criteria for Post-Poliomyelitis Syndrome.
• Differentiate the late effects of Poliomyelitis versus Post-Poliomyelitis Syndrome in the context of anterior horn cell motor neurons.
• Describe the psychosocial aspects of polio survivors and identify the depressive symptoms hidden under the psychological resilience in older adults with post-polio syndrome.
• Recognize the role of and engage neurorehabilitation service in functional restoration and symptomatic management of poliomyelitis and post-poliomyelitis syndrome.