Description
Polio may now be considered a disease of the past in the United States; however, the effects of this epidemic on its survivors continue to emerge. Many polio survivors, now in their 40s and older, report the emergence of new, progressive, and debilitating fatigue, muscle weakness, and pain. The cause of these late effects of polio, known as postpolio syndrome, is not completely understood, and a cure has not been identified. Health care providers need to be familiar with and screen clients for this syndrome, as early detection and management are essential to preserve polio survivors' functional abilities.