Can polio be cured in my 30s?

Patients in their 30s may still be able to improve the sequelae of polio through rehabilitation therapy, surgery and assistive devices, but there is no complete cure. Treatment focuses on improving quality of life and functional recovery.

1Disease characteristics and causes

Poliomyelitis, also known as poliomyelitis, is an acute infectious disease caused by the polio virus infecting the nervous system. If the nerves are damaged after infection, it will cause irreversible motor dysfunction. Untreated patients often have muscle atrophy, limb deformity or motor dysfunction in adulthood. Most patients in their 30s face sequelae rather than new diseases.

2 Treatment methods: rehabilitation medicine

Rehabilitation therapy is a key means to alleviate the sequelae of polio, including functional training and physical therapy.

Exercise therapy: such as passive joint movement, muscle strength training, etc., to help increase muscle strength or prevent the deformity from getting worse, such as standing support training.

Physical therapy: Improve muscle nutrition and relieve spasms with the help of electrical stimulation. Combined with hydrotherapy and other methods, it can also promote blood circulation and enhance vitality.

3 Treatment methods: surgical correction

For some severe limb deformities or functional disorders, surgical treatment may be a necessary option. The goal of surgery is mainly to reduce deformity and improve function. Common surgeries include:

Tendon transfer: A stronger tendon is moved to a weaker tendon to improve the function of a damaged joint.

Arthrodesis: Used to stabilize severely deformed joints and help restore support or walking function.

Orthotics: Corrects severe bone deformities and improves posture and coordination.

4 Treatment methods: assistive device support

Wearing orthotics or functional rehabilitation aids is a common external aid for polio patients in their 30s, which can reduce the burden on surrounding muscles and enhance walking stability. For example:

Foot brace: Provides necessary support to reduce lameness.

Walker or crutches: suitable for people with weak lower limb strength to reduce the risk of falling.

5. Positive psychological support

Adults need to face psychological challenges, such as low self-esteem or worries about the future. Encouragement from family and friends and professional psychological counseling can help build a positive attitude and better cooperate with treatment.

Although the golden period for early intervention of the disease has been missed in the 30s, it is still possible to improve the symptoms to a certain extent through scientific rehabilitation training, surgical correction and spiritual support. It is recommended to consult an orthopedic or rehabilitation medicine expert as soon as possible to develop a targeted plan based on the specific situation to help improve the quality of life and functional level.