[Analysis of fatigue associated to periodic limb movement during sleep in former poliomyelitis patients].

INTRODUCTION

Following poliomyelitis, patients may experience sleep disorders stemming from periodic limb movement, leading to fatigue and compromised muscle function the following day.

AIM: To establish the presence or absence of muscle fatigue in these patients using electromyography and relating the data to polysomnographic findings.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out involving 19 individuals with motor sequelae in the lower limbs stemming from poliomyelitis. Quantitative tests for the assessment of neurophysiological aspects (knee-jerk/Achilles reflexes and peripheral muscle strength of rectus femoris) and a sleep study (standard, level I polysomnography) were administered.

RESULTS

A statistically significant difference was detected (p < 0.01) in muscle strength, demonstrating muscle fatigue associated to sleep disorder.

CONCLUSION

Individuals with sequelae from poliomyelitis exhibit sleep disorders that may lead to muscle fatigue. Periodic limb movement may contribute to this phenomenon.