DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2017.v05i03.055

Pages: 1006-1008

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) refers to a clinical disorder affecting polio survivors with sequel years after the initial polio attack. Prevalence of PPS among polio survivors is 86% in Gujarat, commonest symptoms being difficulty in walking, joint and muscle pain, muscle weakness and fatigue. Although these have been identified as common problems in individuals with PPS, very few medical and para-medical professionals are aware of its diagnosis, clinical features and management. Rehabilitation is the mainstay of management in PPS. Hence the need of the study was to determine the awareness of PPS among post-graduate physiotherapy students. A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a convenient sample of 70 post-graduate physiotherapy students studying in Gujarat University. Those willing to participate were assessed for awareness of PPS using a self-constructed questionnaire. Demographic details and area of specialization of the students were noted. Questionnaire consisted of knowledge regarding clinical features, diagnostic criteria, prognosis, medical- surgical management and role of physiotherapy in PPS. Data was analyzed using appropriate statistical tests. 51% of students were found to be aware of the term PPS and out of this, 34% had knowledge about its clinical features, and 27% had knowledge about its management and prognosis, followed by 12% who had knowledge about its diagnosis. Role of physiotherapy was found to be known by 5% students. 51% physiotherapy students are aware of the term PPS, whereas awareness about diagnosis and management of PPS among physiotherapists is less. There is lack of required awareness and knowledge about PPS among physiotherapists, highlighting the need to sensitize them and hence providing quality care and management of subjects with PPS.