In brief…

 

...news you can use!

 

ARE YOU SLEEPY DURING THE DAY?

 

Dr. Julie Silver of the International Rehabilitation Center for Polio at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Framingham, MA. advises that fatigue is a common complaint.  The first step in addressing fatigue is to look at your lifestyle and sleep hygiene—making adjustments such as reducing work hours or social commitments may help.  If fatigue is limiting your ability to function, you should see a doctor.  Tests may be conducted to find any underlying medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, anemia and infections.  Sleep studies may be performed to monitor body movements, sleep cycles, and breathing patterns, and may reveal a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome.

 

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The Polio Oral

History Project

 

According to Anna Rubin of the Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, this project will give polio survivors their proper place in history as it educates current policymakers, health care providers and even schoolchildren about the American polio epidemic.  If you would like more information or are interested in participating, you may visit the website, www.polioclinic.com/oralhist/index.htm.  If you do not have ready access to the Internet, you may contact Anna Rubin at 508-872-2200, ext.241.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Polio Update

Bits and Pieces

 

The following is a brief summary of Dr. Julie Silver’s article about post polio myths and half-truths—

 

Myth #1 – Some medications are bad

for polio survivors and should be avoided at all costs.

 

While many polio survivors have read about some medicines that may cause problems, such as muscle pain or weakness, Dr. Silver stresses that, in some cases, they may be necessary to save your life.  Her advice is to talk with your doctor and ask if there are other alternative to try – both medications and lifestyle changes.  Also, you may ask your doctor if you could stop the medication for a period of time to see whether it is causing you to feel weaker or more pain.  Ed. Note:  If you have concerns about statin drugs for cholesterol, Dr. Richard Bruno suggests asking your doctor if you can use a slow-acting niacin or a bile acid sequestrant drug to lower cholesterol.

 

Myth #2 –Polio survivors should rest, rest, rest!

 

Our bodies become extremely deconditioned without constant use of the muscles we have.  Even polio-weakened muscles can become weaker from non-use.  On the other hand, overuse can cause problems, too.  The trick is to balance your daily activities with rest and exercise.  Work with healthcare professionals who are experienced in prescribing exercise programs for polio survivors.  Whenever possible, include some strengthening, range of motion and aerobic exercises to be sure you maintain optimal fitness.  If you experience pain or undue fatigue, check with your doctor for possible modifications.  Ed. Note:  The PPSGM has an article available, “To Reap the Rewards of Post Polio Exercise” by Roller and Maynard.  You may contact your local Alpha One office and request a copy.

 

Myth #3 –Swimming is good for you!

 

If you love to swim and have easy and safe access to water, then swimming is probably good for you.  However, if you find yourself fatigued after swimming, or if you fear the risk of falling and having a serious injury, then avoid the stress and consider other exercise options.