In exercise prescription for post-polio, what intensity is recommended?

In exercise prescription for post-polio, what intensity is recommended?

• A. High (7-9/10)
• B. Low to moderate (3-5/10)
• C. Vigorous (7-8/10)
• D. Maximal (9-10/10)

Answer: (B)

Keep exercise intensity at a low to moderate level to avoid triggering fatigue and overwork in post-polio. After polio, the surviving motor units carry more workload and fatigue quickly, so pushing hard can worsen weakness and provoke new symptoms. A light-to-moderate effort, about 3-5 on a 0-10 rating of perceived exertion, provides a safe stimulus to improve endurance and daily function without overwhelming the weakened system. This approach supports gradual progression and careful monitoring of fatigue, pain, and recovery. Higher intensities—vigorous or maximal efforts—tend to provoke fatigue and overuse symptoms, making them inappropriate for most individuals with post-polio.

Keep exercise intensity at a low to moderate level to avoid triggering fatigue and overwork in post-polio. After polio, the surviving motor units carry more workload and fatigue quickly, so pushing hard can worsen weakness and provoke new symptoms. A light-to-moderate effort, about 3-5 on a 0-10 rating of perceived exertion, provides a safe stimulus to improve endurance and daily function without overwhelming the weakened system. This approach supports gradual progression and careful monitoring of fatigue, pain, and recovery. Higher intensities—vigorous or maximal efforts—tend to provoke fatigue and overuse symptoms, making them inappropriate for most individuals with post-polio.