Postpolio Syndrome

The recurrence of symptoms many years after the rehabilitation of individuals who survived the acute illness, poliomyelitis, is a major concern. The purpose of this article is to provide information to the nurse practitioner (NP), who, as a primary health care provider, may be the first health professional to encounter persons with such complaints. Although no cure has been identified, diagnosis and treatment is available and is important to the psychosocial well-being of those who suffer from postpolio syndrome. This article reviews research on the syndrome including etiology, pathophysiology, symptoms and management, psychological issues, and the role of the aging process. Some areas where further research is indicated are also identified.