Hands Getting Weak
Original Post: I contacted polio in 1954 when I was two. It affected my legs and feet especially my right foot. I am having some post-polio symptoms. I never knew I had any trouble with my hands but recently I noticed my left hand has some muscle atrophy. Could this be from PPS?
Dr. Bruno’s Response: Yes. Wasting in the web between the base of the thumb and index finger are common in polio survivors.
Additional Post: Is that why I am literally losing my grip? I first noticed when I was pulling weeds in the garden and couldn't grip tightly enough to pull the weed out.
Dr. Bruno’s Response: It could be the cause of weakness when you are using the thumb to grab something.
Additional Post: That explains a lot. I am a guitar player and had to give it up because I do not have the strength to press down the strings. That takes a lot of thumb strength.
Another Post: I took piano lessons after polio and onward to strengthen my hands . . . doctor's orders. Now? I have that very piano, but have to limit my time playing because said hands are now weak!! The circle happened...
Another Post: I was so lucky, because my polio thumb and finger were the only noticeable evidence of my bout with polio. Over the years I learned to compensate for them. Unfortunately, that hand is now becoming pretty much useless.
Dr. Bruno’s Response: Very few polio survivors did strengthening exercises after polio so those little hand muscles didn't get stronger and tend to get weaker over time. It’s hard NOT to use your hands!