No antivirals are effective against polioviruses. The treatment of poliomyelitis is mainly supportive. Analgesia is indicated in cases of myalgias or headache. Mechanical ventilation often is needed in patients with bulbar paralysis. Tracheostomy care often is needed in patients requiring chronic ventilatory support.
Physical therapy is indicated in cases of paralytic disease.
In paralytic disease, provide frequent mobilization to avoid development of chronic decubitus ulcerations. Active and passive motion exercises are indicated during the convalescent stage. Fecal impaction is frequent in cases of paralytic disease and can be treated with laxatives as soon as it develops. No antivirals are effective against poliovirus. Patients with poliomyelitis may develop bladder dysfunction for which catheterization frequently is required.