International Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Abstract
Background: Post-polio individuals benefit from postural correction, orthoses/Bracing, mobility devices, respiratory dysfunction management, management of dysphagia, management of cold intolerance, weight management, psychological management and lifestyle modification.
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to develop novel methods and systems for rehabilitation and control of assistive devices usage.
Materials and methods: A descriptive study design was used to include people who survived from or had suffered polio who met the inclusion criteria of; (can understand English, don’t have cognitive impairments, don’t have communication impairment, has been diagnosed of Polio in the past) through a random selection. Data was collected through questionnaire which contained simple and concise questions, which were used to give respondents specific answer or opinion.
Results: A total of 128 questionnaires were issued out and 48 respondents returned completely filled questionnaires out of the 128. The 48 subjects were 21years and above, out of which, 29(60%) were female and 19(40%) were male. 14(29%) of the patients were currently attending a hospital clinic. 14(29%) reported of respiratory symptoms, 5(10%) reported of falls and fractures symptoms, 31(64%) reported of insomnia symptoms, 4(8%) reported of mental confusion, 14(19%) reported of irritability, 16(33%) reported of headaches, 3(6%) reported of speech symptoms, 9(19%) reported of swallowing symptoms, 5(11%) reported of weight loss, 36(75%) reported of cold intolerance, 32(66%) reported of fatigue. Disabilities reported by the subjects are difficulties in; walking 1/4miles on level ground 34(71%), walking up and down steps 37(77%), bending and straightening up 33(70%), falling and keeping balance 26(54%), reaching and stretching 22(46%), holding, gripping and turning 15(13%), recognizing friends across roads 4(4%), reading newsprints 5(10%), hearing 7(15%), noises in heads and ears 9(19%), going outside the house 18(38%), living alone 26(54%), 25 (52%) limitation to the type of work they could do.
Conclusion: The outcome of this survey showed that the frequent health challenges faced by post-polio patients were cold intolerance, increased muscle weakness, muscle pain, fatigue and joint pain. Pain is worthy of the emphasis as a symptom, being commonly reported in the back and neck 31(64%), as well as in muscles and joint. Physical disabilities, fatigue and pain were the principal causes of handicap in this population rather than mental or social factor.