Polio Clinic
Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center has been treating individuals with Polio for well over half a century. Extensive clinical expertise combined with groundbreaking research contributes to Rancho’s international reputation in diagnosis and management of Post-Polio Sequelae and Post-Polio Syndrome.
The late Dr. Jacquelin Perry, MD, an orthopedic surgeon, first came to Rancho and worked with patients during the Polio outbreak of the 1950s, and an early version of the clinic was established during the 1970s. Dr. Perry advised and mentored countless patients, physician residents, and therapists with her greater than fifty years of experience in the treatment and management of acute Poliomyelitis, Post-Polio Sequelae, and Post-Polio Syndrome. Staffing includes a team of physicians, physical and occupational therapists, and orthotists who are specially trained in management of individuals with post-polio. Therapeutic programs are rooted in evidence, and our team collaborates with patients to improve function through lifestyle modification, customized orthotic management, adaptive equipment recommendations, individualized exercise prescriptions and, when indicated, selective reconstructive surgery.
The center also utilizes the unique services of Rancho’s Pathokinesiology Laboratory for instrumented diagnosis of complex gait impairments and the Seating Center for evaluation of alternative means of movement via manual or powered mobility. Patients are evaluated and recommendations may be made to Rancho’s Driving Rehabilitation Program, Vocational Services, or to CART (Center for Applied Rehab Technology) to promote continued independence with working and community re–integration. Medical issues which require greater follow up, such as respiratory or psychological issues, may be referred to other specialists as indicated.
Evaluations for first-time clients are comprehensive. A physician takes an extensive medical history, and a physical therapist performs full body strength and range-of-motion assessment as well as gait analysis. An occupational therapist assesses daily routines which may include work simplification and energy conservation and adapted strategies to preserve physical abilities and function. The team meets to discuss all findings with the client and any relevant individuals. The interdisciplinary team may recommend bracing to enhance a client’s walking ability. The client may try a temporary brace during the evaluation to help determine what custom orthosis may optimally improve his/her function. The ordering process for the appropriate brace can then be initiated in collaboration with the orthotist. Following the initial comprehensive evaluation, many clients are followed on a less frequent basis for several years.
To schedule an appointment in this specialty clinic, please call The Outpatient Referral Business Office at (562) 385-6536. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
