Strain on Polio Weakened Legs
Question: Which is more strenuous, standing or walking?
Dr. Bruno’s Response: In general standing is actually more strenuous than walking. It’s more tiring to stand in one place because muscles in your feet, legs and back are continuously turned on by already tired, poliovirus-damaged motor neurons. When you're walking, the muscles aren't all activated at the same time but turn on and off as you walk. This prevents any given muscle(s) from staying turned on and getting exhausted. Standing also reduces blood flow to the muscles, causing muscle fibers to tire more easily and can produce pain in the feet, legs and back.