Post-polio syndrome
New weakness and tiredness, years after polio.
A short film of what happens — no sound needed.
What's happening
Post-polio syndrome is new weakness, tiredness and pain that appears decades after the original polio illness.
The nerves that took over and compensated after polio have slowly become overworked, and begin to tire.
It is not a return of polio, and not an infection — it is wear on a system that has carried more than its share.
With pacing and the right support, most people stabilise and protect their independence for many years.
What you may see at home
- New weakness in muscles affected — or even unaffected — by the original illness
- Unusual, heavy tiredness that rest does not fully clear
- Muscle and joint pain, especially after activity
- New difficulty with walking, stairs, or breathing
- Feeling the cold more than before
If old polio is followed by new weakness or tiredness, this is a recognised condition — and it is manageable.
How we help
- 1We make energy conservation the central principle, not an afterthought.
- 2We use gentle strengthening and aerobic work that protect muscle rather than drain it.
- 3We review braces, footwear and mobility aids to ease the daily load on tired muscles.
- 4We build pacing strategies so you can do what matters without paying for it for days.
What getting better looks like
Starting
Learning the pacing and energy habits that protect tired muscles.
Settling in
With pacing and the right supports, weakness and tiredness steady out.
Long term
Post-polio syndrome moves slowly. Most people hold their independence for many years.
Post-polio syndrome progresses slowly. We are honest about that — and honest that pacing genuinely protects your function.
Your next step
Talk to us about post-polio syndromeNo cost, no pressure. We will tell you honestly if we can help.