(pōst‵pō'lē-ō‵ )

The development of motor and respiratory muscle weakness, limb muscle atrophy, fatigue, and diminished endurance occurring approx. 15–25 years after an initial bout of paralytic poliomyelitis. The syndrome results from progressive motor denervation.

Patient Care: Affected patients benefit from the use of mobility aids, regular, supervised exercise, modifications of their homes and workplaces, planned rest periods, and orthoses to maintain optimal function and prevent excessive fatigue and bone, joint, or muscle injury. Patients with dysphagia are at risk for aspiration pneumonia and benefit from speech consultation.

SYN: postpoliomyelitis muscular atrophy.

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