Avoid stimulant laxatives. Medical evaluation of post-polios should include a complete history, physical exam, and appropriate lab studies. Muscle strength evaluation should be done by a registered physical therapist or someone familiar with neuromuscular disease. Muscle testing is now advised every year even if there is no obvious change. Experienced physical or occupational therapists can help determine functional losses and how best to adapt.
Swimming is the best cardiovascular endurance and general conditioning exercise.
Discontinue any exercise that causes pain, weakness, or muscle fatigue, including walking. Muscles weakened by polio respond poorly to vigorous strengthening programs. Programs such as weight lifting often aggravate the condition. Each of you should know your own strength limits or endurance, and avoid going repeatedly to that limit. Occupational therapists can assess extremity function, daily activities, and the need for assistive devices to help achieve the highest level of independence possible.