Prolonged benefit in post-polio syndrome from comprehensive rehabilitation: a pilot study

Changes in self-perceived performance and satisfaction with performance of daily activities following interdisciplinary rehabilitation in people with late effects of polio

BACKGROUND

People with late effects of polio (LEoP) may need rehabilitation to manage everyday life but knowledge of the benefits of interdisciplinary rehabilitation is limited.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate changes in performance and satisfaction with performance of activities among people with LEoP following interdisciplinary rehabilitation.

METHODS

A pre-post retrospective study based on data on 102 participants with LEoP from a rehabilitation clinic. Changes in performance and satisfaction with performance of daily activities before and after interdisciplinary rehabilitation were assessed with the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM).

RESULTS

There were statistically significant increases in the mean performance and mean satisfaction with performance COPM scores from admission to discharge. Twenty-three percent and 19% of the participants, respectively, had improved their performance and satisfaction with performance, 25% and 26% of the participants had no changes, and 19% and 22% of the participants, respectively, rated their performance and satisfaction lower at discharge compared to admission.

CONCLUSION

Interdisciplinary rehabilitation can enhance self-rated performance and satisfaction with performance of daily activities among people with LEoP. Future studies of rehabilitation for people with LEoP should use a prospective design and capture the participants' process of change related to their rehabilitation period.

Increased cerebral integrity metrics in poliomyelitis survivors: putative adaptation to longstanding lower motor neuron degeneration

BACKGROUND

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) has been traditionally considered a slowly progressive condition that affects poliomyelitis survivors decades after their initial infection. Cerebral changes in poliomyelitis survivors are poorly characterised and the few existing studies are strikingly conflicting.

OBJECTIVE

The overarching aim of this study is the comprehensive characterisation of cerebral grey and white matter alterations in poliomyelitis survivors with reference to healthy- and disease-controls using quantitative imaging metrics.

METHODS

Thirty-six poliomyelitis survivors, 88 patients with ALS and 117 healthy individuals were recruited in a prospective, single-centre neuroimaging study using uniform MRI acquisition parameters. All participants underwent standardised clinical assessments, T1-weighted structural and diffusion tensor imaging. Whole-brain and region-of-interest morphometric analyses were undertaken to evaluate patterns of grey matter changes. Tract-based spatial statistics were performed to evaluate diffusivity alterations in a study-specific whiter matter skeleton.

RESULTS

In contrast to healthy controls, poliomyelitis survivors exhibited increased grey matter partial volumes in the brainstem, cerebellum and occipital lobe, accompanied by increased FA in the corticospinal tracts, cerebellum, bilateral mesial temporal lobes and inferior frontal tracts. Polio survivors exhibited increased integrity metrics in the same anatomical regions where ALS patients showed degenerative changes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate considerable cortical and white matter reorganisation in poliomyelitis survivors which may be interpreted as compensatory, adaptive change in response to severe lower motor neuron injury in infancy.

The value of a post-polio syndrome self-management programme

Background

Post-polio syndrome is characterised by symptoms of fatigue, pain and new-onset neuromuscular weakness, and emerges decades after the initial poliovirus infection. We sought to evaluate the only post-polio syndrome specific self-management programme in the United Kingdom.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of patients who had completed a residential self-management programme led by a multi-disciplinary clinical team. Following a confirmed diagnosis of post-polio syndrome by rehabilitation and neurology specialists, patients were offered to participate in the programme. Although group-based, patients also received individually tailored support on physical exercise and fatigue management. Physical effects, physical function, psychosocial well-being measures were assessed at baseline and 6 months follow-up. Knowledge was tested at baseline and immediately following the programme. Statistical comparisons were made using paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed rank test according to the data distribution.

Results

Over a period of 17 years, 214 participants (median age 61.3 years old, 63% female) attended 31 programmes. At 6 months the following post-polio syndrome specific symptoms improved significantly: fatigue, as measured by the Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue scale [37.6 (7.1) vs. 34.2 (9.3), P=0.005]; and pain [15.0 (6.1) vs. 13.1 (6.7), P=0.001], atrophy [10.0 (8.0–12.0) vs. 9.0 (7.0–11.0), P=0.002] and bulbar symptoms [3.0 (1.0–5.0) vs. 2.0 (0–4.0), P=0.003] as measured by the Index of Post-polio Sequelae scale. Knowledge related to post-polio syndrome also significantly increased [14.0 (11.0–16.0) vs. 17.0 (16.0–19.0), P=0.001]. Participants were able to walk at a faster speed over 10 meters [0.77 (0.59–1.00) vs. 0.83 (0.67–1.10) m/s, P=0.003] and walked longer distances during the 2-minute walk test [76.9 (31.7) vs. 82.0 (38.4) m, P=0.029]. Depression and anxiety scores did not change over time [PHQ-9, 2.0 (0.3–10.8) vs. 2.0 (0.3–6.8), P=0.450; GAD-7, 2.0 (0–7.0) vs. 1.0 (0–3.0), P=0.460] nor was there change in self-reported quality of life {60 [50–70] vs. 60 [55–70], P=0.200}.

Conclusions

This study suggests that a post-polio syndrome self-management programme led to improvement in symptoms, knowledge and walking speed, but not quality of life. Anxiety and depression scores remained low.

Life Satisfaction in Persons With Late Effects of Polio: A Test-Retest Reliability Study

BACKGROUND

The Life Satisfaction Questionnaire (LiSat-11), including one global item and 10 domain-specific items, is used to evaluate life satisfaction in persons with the late effects of polio (LEoPs). However, there is a lack of knowledge about its psychometric properties.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the test-retest reliability of the LiSat-11 and the associations between the global and domain-specific items in persons with LEoPs.

DESIGN

A test-retest design, where data were collected by a postal survey.

SETTING

University Hospital, Outpatient Clinic.

PARTICIPANTS

A cross-sectional sample of persons (20 women and 31 men; mean age 72 years) with LEoPs.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

LiSat-11, assessing how satisfied a person is with different aspects of life, such as life as a whole, vocation, economy, leisure, contacts with friends and acquaintances, sexual life, activities of daily living (ADLs), family life, partner relationship, somatic health, and psychological health.

METHODS

LiSat-11 was administered on two occasions, 2 weeks apart. The test-retest reliability was evaluated by Kappa statistics, the percent agreement (PA), and the Svensson rank-invariant method. The association between the items was evaluated with the Spearman rank correlation coefficient (rho).

RESULTS

The Kappa coefficients showed good to excellent agreement (0.64-0.90) and the PA ≤1 point was high (>92%) for all items. No items showed any systematic or random disagreements according to the Svensson method. All domain-specific items correlated significantly with the global item "Life as a whole" (P < .01; rhos 0.41 to 0.75).

CONCLUSIONS

LiSat-11 is reliable for assessing life satisfaction in persons with LEoPs. The global item "Life as a whole" is useful as an overall measure but cannot fully replace the information obtained from the domain-specific items of LiSat-11.

Post-polio Syndrome: More Than Just a Lower Motor Neuron Disease

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is a neurological condition that affects polio survivors decades after their initial infection. Despite its high prevalence, the etiology of PPS remains elusive, mechanisms of progression are poorly understood, and the condition is notoriously under-researched. While motor dysfunction is a hallmark feature of the condition, generalized fatigue, sleep disturbance, decreased endurance, neuropsychological deficits, sensory symptoms, and chronic pain are also often reported and have considerable quality of life implications in PPS. The non-motor aspects of PPS are particularly challenging to evaluate, quantify, and treat. Generalized fatigue is one of the most distressing symptoms of PPS and is likely to be multifactorial due to weight-gain, respiratory compromise, poor sleep, and polypharmacy. No validated diagnostic, monitoring, or prognostic markers have been developed in PPS to date and the mainstay of therapy centers on symptomatic relief and individualized rehabilitation strategies such as energy conservation and muscle strengthening exercise regimes. Despite a number of large clinical trials in PPS, no effective disease-modifying pharmacological treatments are currently available.

Test-Retest Reliability of the Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNL-I) to Assess Perceived Participation in Adults With Late Effects of Polio

BACKGROUND

Many individuals with late effects of polio have difficulties participating in daily activities. The Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNL-I) is a self-report questionnaire that evaluates perceived participation, but knowledge of the test-retest reliability and measurement errors in this population is lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the test-retest reliability of the RNL-I in adults with late effects of polio.

DESIGN

A postal survey with a test-retest design.

SETTING

University hospital outpatient clinic.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty-one adults (20 women and 31 men; mean age 72 years) with late effects of polio.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

The Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNL-I).

METHODS

The participants responded to the RNL-I twice, 3 weeks apart. Data were analyzed with the following statistical methods: percentage agreement (PA), quadratic kappa coefficients, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), mean difference, standard error of measurement (SEM/SEM%), and the smallest real difference (SRD/SRD%).

RESULTS

The PA (ie, the same scoring at both test occasions) was >70% for 10 of 11 items. The kappa coefficients showed good test-retest agreement (>0.61) for 7 items. The ICC was 0.88 and the mean difference was -0.74. The SEM (SEM%) was 7.4 (9.7%) and the SRD (SRD%) was 20.5 (27.0%).

CONCLUSION

The RNL-I can be considered reliable for adults with mild to moderate late effects of polio. It can thereby be used to assess changes in perceived participation over time or after rehabilitation interventions, both for a group of individuals and a single individual.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Post-polio syndrome and the late effects of poliomyelitis: Part 2. treatment, management, and prognosis

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is characterized by new muscle weakness and/or muscle fatigability that occurs many years after the initial poliomyelitis illness. An individualized approach to rehabilitation management is critical. Interventions may include rehabilitation management strategies, adaptive equipment, orthotic equipment, gait/mobility aids, and a variety of therapeutic exercises. The progression of muscle weakness in PPS is typically slow and gradual; however, there is also variability in both the natural history of weakness and functional prognosis. Further research is required to determine the effectiveness of selected medical treatment. Muscle Nerve 58:760-769, 2018.

Polio survivors perceptions of a multi-disciplinary rehabilitation programme

PURPOSE

Post-polio syndrome refers to a late complication of the poliovirus infection. Management of post-polio syndrome is complex due to the extensive symptomology. European and United Kingdom guidelines have advised the use of rehabilitation programmes to manage post-polio syndrome. There is a paucity of research in relation to the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions. The objective of this study is to explore polio survivor's perceptions of an in-patient multi-disciplinary rehabilitation programme.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews of community dwelling polio survivors who attended in-patient rehabilitation programme in the United Kingdom. Thematic analysis was used to describe and interpret interview data.

RESULTS

Participants' experiences were influenced by past experiences of polio and their self-concept. Participants generally had a positive experience and valued being with other polio survivors. Positive strategies, such as pacing and reflection changed their mind-sets into their lives after the programme, though they still faced challenges in daily living. Some participants supported others with post-polio syndrome after completing the programme.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research identified that participants experienced long term positive benefits from attending a rehabilitation programme. Strategies that users found helpful that explored the effectiveness of interventions to manage polio are not cited within a Cochrane review. If we are to recognise the lived experience and service user empowerment within a model of co- production it is essential that patient preferences are evaluated and used as evidence to justify service provision. Further research is required with polio survivors to explore how best rehabilitation programmes can adopt the principles of co-production. Implications for Rehabilitation The patients' expertise and lived experience must be at the centre of a rehabilitation programme. Strategies such as pacing and reflection are perceived as important strategies to enable self-management of polio and post-polio syndrome despite the limited evidence base to support these interventions. Polio rehabilitation programmes should not be time limited and commissioners and therapists need to ensure that follow up support is provided. When measuring outcomes patient preferences and views must be evaluated.

Prospective observational cohort study of patients with weaning failure admitted to a specialist weaning, rehabilitation and home mechanical ventilation centre

OBJECTIVES

According to National Health Service England (NHSE) specialist respiratory commissioning specification for complex home ventilation, patients with weaning failure should be referred to a specialist centre. However, there are limited data reporting the clinical outcomes from such centres.

SETTING

Prospective observational cohort study of patients admitted to a UK specialist weaning, rehabilitation and home mechanical ventilation centre between February 2005 and July 2013.

PARTICIPANTS

262 patients admitted with a median age of 64.2 years (IQR 52.6-73.2 years). 59.9% were male.

RESULTS

39.7% of patients had neuromuscular and/or chest wall disease, 21% were postsurgical, 19.5% had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), 5.3% had obesity-related respiratory failure and 14.5% had other diagnoses. 64.1% of patients were successfully weaned, with 38.2% weaned fully from ventilation, 24% weaned to nocturnal non-invasive ventilation (NIV), 1.9% weaned to nocturnal NIV with intermittent NIV during the daytime. 21.4% of patients were discharged on long-term tracheostomy ventilation. The obesity-related respiratory failure group were most likely to wean (relative risk (RR) for weaning success=1.48, 95% CI 1.35 to 1.77; p<0.001), but otherwise weaning success rates did not significantly vary by diagnostic group. The median time-to-wean was 19 days (IQR 9-33) and the median duration of stay was 31 days (IQR 16-50), with no difference observed between the groups. Weaning centre mortality was 14.5%, highest in the COPD group (RR=2.15, 95% CI 1.19 to 3.91, p=0.012) and lowest in the neuromuscular and/or chest wall disease group (RR=0.34, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.75, p=0.007). Of all patients discharged alive, survival was 71.7% at 6 months and 61.8% at 12 months postdischarge.

CONCLUSIONS

Following NHSE guidance, patients with weaning delay and failure should be considered for transfer to a specialist centre where available, which can demonstrate favourable short-term and long-term clinical outcomes.

No Reduction of Severe Fatigue in Patients With Postpolio Syndrome by Exercise Therapy or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Background. People with postpolio syndrome (PPS) commonly experience severe fatigue that persists over time and negatively affects functioning and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Objectives. To study the efficacy of exercise therapy (ET) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on reducing fatigue and improving activities and HRQoL in patients with PPS. Methods. We conducted a multicenter, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Over 4 months, severely fatigued patients with PPS received ET, CBT, or usual care (UC). The primary end point (fatigue) was assessed using the subscale fatigue severity of the Checklist Individual Strength (CIS20-F). Secondary end points included activities and HRQoL, which were assessed with the Sickness Impact Profile and the 36-Item Short-Form, respectively. End points were measured at baseline and at 4, 7, and 10 months. Results. A total of 68 patients were randomized. No differences were observed between the intervention groups and UC group for fatigue (mean differences in CIS20-F score = 1.47, 95%CI = −2.84 to 5.79, for ET versus UC; and 1.87, 95%CI = −2.24 to 5.98, for CBT versus UC), activities, or HRQoL. Conclusions. Our results demonstrate that neither ET nor CBT were superior to UC in reducing fatigue in severely fatigued PPS patients. Further research should investigate explanations for the lack of efficacy of these 2 currently advised approaches in clinical practice, which may provide clues to improving treatment aimed at reducing fatigue in PPS.

Treatment for postpolio syndrome

BACKGROUND

Postpolio syndrome (PPS) may affect survivors of paralytic poliomyelitis and is characterised by a complex of neuromuscular symptoms leading to a decline in physical functioning. The effectiveness of pharmacological treatment and rehabilitation management in PPS is not yet established. This is an update of a review first published in 2011.

OBJECTIVES

To systematically review the evidence from randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials for the effect of any pharmacological or non-pharmacological treatment for PPS compared to placebo, usual care or no treatment. 

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the following databases on 21 July 2014: Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease Group Specialized Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO and CINAHL Plus. We also checked reference lists of all relevant articles, searched the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE), the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Database and trial registers and contacted investigators known to be involved in research in this area.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised trials of any form of pharmacological or non-pharmacological treatment for people with PPS. The primary outcome was self perceived activity limitations and secondary outcomes were muscle strength, muscle endurance, fatigue, pain and adverse events.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methodological procedures expected by The Cochrane Collaboration.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 10 pharmacological (modafinil, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), pyridostigmine, lamotrigine, amantadine, prednisone) and three non-pharmacological (muscle strengthening, rehabilitation in a warm climate (that is temperature ± 25°C, dry and sunny) and a cold climate (that is temperature ± 0°C, rainy or snowy), static magnetic fields) studies with a total of 675 participants with PPS in this review. None of the included studies were completely free from any risk of bias, the most prevalent risk of bias being lack of blinding.There was moderate- and low-quality evidence that IVIg has no beneficial effect on activity limitations in the short term and long term, respectively, and inconsistency in the evidence for effectiveness on muscle strength. IVIg caused minor adverse events in a substantial proportion of the participants. Results of one trial provided very low-quality evidence that lamotrigine might be effective in reducing pain and fatigue, resulting in fewer activity limitations without generating adverse events. Data from two single trials suggested that muscle strengthening of thumb muscles (very low-quality evidence) and static magnetic fields (moderate-quality evidence) are safe and beneficial for improving muscle strength and pain, respectively, with unknown effects on activity limitations. Finally, there was evidence varying from very low quality to high quality that modafinil, pyridostigmine, amantadine, prednisone and rehabilitation in a warm or cold climate are not beneficial in PPS.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Due to insufficient good-quality data and lack of randomised studies, it was impossible to draw definite conclusions about the effectiveness of interventions for PPS. Results indicated that IVIg, lamotrigine, muscle strengthening exercises and static magnetic fields may be beneficial but need further investigation to clarify whether any real and meaningful effect exists.

Polio survivors' perceptions of the meaning of quality of life and strategies used to promote participation in everyday activities

Introduction

The term ‘post‐polio syndrome’ (PPS) is used to describe new and late manifestations of poliomyelitis that occur later in life. Research in this area has focused upon health status rather than its effect on quality of life.

Aim

To gain an in‐depth understanding of the meaning of quality of life for polio survivors and to determine the type of strategies that are used by people with PPS and the support that they consider as important to facilitate participation in everyday life activities that have an impact on their quality of life.

Method

Six focus groups were conducted with 51 participants from two regions in England. Data were audio‐taped and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Our research found that polio survivors used terms used to describe quality of life which could be associated with that of happiness. Our research has identified resolvable factors that influence quality of life namely inaccessible environments, attitudes of health‐care professionals and societal attitudes. Polio survivors have tried alternative therapies, chiefly acupuncture and massage, and found them to be effective in enhancing their quality of life.

Conclusion

It is suggested that health‐care professionals should consider factors which influence happiness and implement a person‐centred approach with the views of the polio survivor being listened to. The three factors that influenced quality of life could be resolved by health‐care professionals and by society. With regard to strategies used, we suggest that polio survivors should have access to the treatments that they perceive as important, although further research is required to design optimal interventions for this client group.

Effects of Dăoyĭn Qìgōng in postpolio syndrome patients with cold intolerance

Postpolio syndrome (PPS) is characterized by progressive muscle weakness due to former infection with poliomyelitis and can be associated with other symptoms such as cold intolerance (CI). Dăoyĭn Qìgōng (DQ) is a technique in Traditional Chinese Medicine that impacts the circulation of energy and blood.

OBJECTIVE

It was to verify the effects of DQ in PPS patients complaining of cold intolerance.

METHODS

Ten PPS patients were assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) adapted for CI before and after intervention with DQ; patients practiced it in a sitting position for 40 minutes, 3 times per week over 3 consecutive months. Patients were reassessed three months after ceasing DQ.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant difference in local and systemic VAS-Cold both at the end of DQ training and three months past the end of this.

CONCLUSION

The DQ technique ameliorated CI complaints in patients with PPS.

Treatment for postpolio syndrome

BACKGROUND

Postpolio syndrome (PPS) may affect survivors of paralytic poliomyelitis and is characterised by a complex of neuromuscular symptoms leading to a decline in physical functioning. The effectiveness of pharmacological treatment and rehabilitation management in PPS is not yet established.

OBJECTIVES

To review systematically the effects of any treatment for PPS compared to placebo, usual care or no treatment.  

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the following databases on 1 October 2010: Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease Group Specialized Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO and CINAHL Plus from inception to September 2010.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised trials of any form of pharmacological or non-pharmacological treatment for people with PPS. The primary outcome was self-perceived activity limitations and secondary outcomes were muscle strength, muscle endurance, fatigue, pain and adverse events.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently selected eligible studies, assessed risk of bias and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

Nine pharmacological (modafinil, intravenous immunoglobulin, pyridostigmine, lamotrigine, amantadine, prednisone) and three non-pharmacological (muscle strengthening, rehabilitation in a warm climate (i.e. temperature ± 25°C, dry and sunny) and a cold climate (i.e. temperature ± 0°C, rainy or snowy), static magnetic fields) studies were included in this review. None of the included studies was completely free from any risk of bias and the most prevalent risk of bias was lack of blinding.There is moderate quality evidence that intravenous immunoglobulin has no beneficial effect on activity limitations and there is inconsistency in the evidence for effectiveness on muscle strength and pain. Results of one trial provide very low quality evidence that lamotrigine might be effective in reducing pain and fatigue, resulting in fewer activity limitations. Data from two single trials suggest that muscle strengthening of thumb muscles (very low quality evidence) and static magnetic fields (moderate quality evidence) are beneficial for improving muscle strength and pain, respectively, with unknown effects on activity limitations. Finally, there is evidence varying from very low quality to high quality that modafinil, pyridostigmine, amantadine, prednisone and rehabilitation in a warm or cold climate are not beneficial in PPS.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Due to insufficient good quality data and lack of randomised studies it is impossible to draw definite conclusions on the effectiveness of interventions for PPS. Results indicate that IVIG, lamotrigine, muscle strengthening exercises and static magnetic fields may be beneficial but need further investigation.

Update on current and emerging treatment options for post-polio syndrome

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) refers to the clinical deterioration experienced by many polio survivors several decades after their acute illness. The symptoms are new muscle weakness, decreased muscle endurance, fatigue, muscle pain, joint pain, cold intolerance, and this typical clinical entity is reported from different parts of the world. The pathophysiology behind PPS is not fully understood, but a combination of distal degeneration of enlarged motor units caused by increased metabolic demands and the normal aging process, in addition to inflammatory mechanisms, are thought to be involved. There is no diagnostic test for PPS, and the diagnosis is based on a proper clinical workup where all other possible explanations for the new symptoms are ruled out. The basic principle of management of PPS lies in physical activity, individually tailored training programs, and lifestyle modification. Muscle weakness and muscle pain may be helped with specific training programs, in which training in warm water seems to be particularly helpful. Properly fitted orthoses can improve the biomechanical movement pattern and be energy-saving. Fatigue can be relieved with lifestyle changes, assistive devices, and training programs. Respiratory insufficiency can be controlled with noninvasive respiratory aids including biphasic positive pressure ventilators. Pharmacologic agents like prednisone, amantadine, pyridostigmine, and coenzyme Q10 are of no benefit in PPS. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been tried in three studies, all having positive results. IVIG could probably be a therapeutic alternative, but the potential benefit is modest, and some important questions are still unanswered, in particular to which patients this treatment is useful, the dose, and the therapeutic interval.

Exercise therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy to improve fatigue, daily activity performance and quality of life in postpoliomyelitis syndrome: the protocol of the FACTS-2-PPS trial

Background

Postpoliomyelitis Syndrome (PPS) is a complex of late onset neuromuscular symptoms with new or increased muscle weakness and muscle fatigability as key symptoms. Main clinical complaints are severe fatigue, deterioration in functional abilities and health related quality of life. Rehabilitation management is the mainstay of treatment. Two different therapeutic interventions may be prescribed (1) exercise therapy or (2) cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). However, the evidence on the effectiveness of both interventions is limited. The primary aim of the FACTS-2-PPS trial is to study the efficacy of exercise therapy and CBT for reducing fatigue and improving activities and quality of life in patients with PPS. Additionally, the working mechanisms, patients' and therapists' expectations of and experiences with both interventions and cost-effectiveness will be evaluated.

Methods/Design

A multi-centre, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial will be conducted. A sample of 81 severely fatigued patients with PPS will be recruited from 3 different university hospitals and their affiliate rehabilitation centres. Patients will be randomized to one of three groups i.e. (1) exercise therapy + usual care, (2) CBT + usual care, (3) usual care. At baseline, immediately post-intervention and at 3- and 6-months follow-up, fatigue, activities, quality of life and secondary outcomes will be assessed. Costs will be based on a cost questionnaire, and statistical analyses on GEE (generalized estimated equations). Analysis will also consider mechanisms of change during therapy. A responsive evaluation will be conducted to monitor the implementation process and to investigate the perspectives of patients and therapists on both interventions.

Discussion

A major strength of the FACTS-2-PPS study is the use of a mixed methods design in which a responsive and economic evaluation runs parallel to the trial. The results of this study will generate new evidence for the rehabilitation treatment of persons with PPS.

Trial registration

Dutch Trial Register NTR1371.

Post-polio syndrome and rehabilitation

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is the commonly affected term to describe the symptoms that may develop many years after acute paralytic poliomyelitis. The etiology of PPS is still unclear. An overuse of enlarged motor units is suspected causing denervation again due to distal degeneration of axons. Metabolic and functional changes has been described in muscle fibers of partially denervated muscles. Nevertheless, submaximal aerobic training and low intensity muscular strengthening have shown positive effects on muscular strength and cardiorespiratory system in patients affected by PPS. Aquatic therapy has a positive impact on pain and muscle function. In patients with severe fatigue, it is recommended to adapt the daily exercise routine to their specific case.