muscle atrophy

[lina123]

dear neurologist

is there any new treatment for post poliomyelitis muscle atrophy in a 35-years old male?
this patient had a poliomyelitis disease in childhood.

thanks
lina

[Neuro Forum]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with your doctor.

While I can not make specific recommendations about treatment, I will try to provide you with some useful information.

There are no definitively proven cures or effective treatments for post-polio syndrome. Many medications have been tried in research studies, including cortisteroids and medications such as mestinon, amantadine, provigil (modafinil), IVIG, and others. None of these have shown a definitive benefit though research is ongoing, and some medications such as IVIG may show promise. Researchers are also investigating nerve growth factors, to stimulate regrowh of nerves. This is at the very preliminary research stages at this point.

If pain of the muscles and joints is a symptom, then treatment of the pain could include over the counter pain medications, with the anti-inflammatories being helpful for many patients.

While postpolio syndrome can cause fatigue, exercise is helpful in improving energy and strength. A regimented exercise program, tailored to the patient, as prescribed by the patient's neurologist and physical therapist (i.e. under professional supervision) can be very helpful.

Thank you for this opportunity to answer your questions, I hope you find the information I have provided useful, good luck.

[lina123]

dear Dr lama chahine
thank you so much for your response.
lina