Orthotics - May Be Best Answer for Severe Cases of Post-Polio Syndrome

Poliomyelitis or Polio as it’s best known… is a crippling disease that by the good will of man and the grace of invention, there has long been a cure. Although the polio vaccine arrived on the seen early enough to halt the spread of infantile paralysis(polio). The long term effects of this virus are not so quick at toppling to defeat!  

All the Above are Symptoms of (PPS) -- Post - Polio Syndrome

PPS hits its victim 10 - 40 years after the onset of the original infection and in many cases a decade or so after vaccination. This sudden bout with fatigue and constant pain takes its toll on both patient and caregiver.

As of yet… there is no cure for PPS, only palliative treatments that aid in the coping of various conditions and symptoms. Although the prognosis isn’t life threatening there are treatments, devices and therapies patients are using to assist in constantly improving their quality of life.

Because PPS leaves the majority of its victims with sever foot, leg, and hip deformities leg and foot aids are common devices found amongst Polio Survivors!

Orthotics is a field that specializes in the development of special equipment that corrects or supports muscular or skeletal deformities.

Braces - Crucial in Delivering Range of Motion and Support in Severe Cases 

Many new materials and designs are available today that allow for lighter, easier to use braces and assistive devices. These advancements spell relief for PPS patients

If you’re curious as to where you can find a good orthotics specialist - Your best bet is to go online and search for orthotic professionals in your area. Usually the results found through google searches are reliable resources!

Foot Orthotics and Braces - Most Popular Devices For PPS Survivors...

The process involved in calculating device structure and function has been refined over the years and requires the casting of body part in question I.e. foot or legs... From this cast a working model is developed and tested. Once approved the orthotics device belongs to the patient and is worn as prescribed.

This is a brief overview of the role orthotics plays in the life of some polio survivors.

The information in this article in no way is to replace treatments or prognosis given by your primary care physician. 

About the author: Daryl Clayton Kennedy is editor of disabled mobility scooter.com and a regular contributor to mobility and health related blogs and websites throughout the net. Daryls' portable electric scooter reviews and mobility scooter reviews are helpful aids in choosing mobility devices and accessories for you or your loved one!