Post-polio syndrome is described as having an RPE of which range?

• A. 8-10/10
• B. 1-3/10
• C. 3-5/10
• D. 6-8/10

Answer: (C)

In post-polio syndrome, the goal of exercise is to provide a safe, sustainable stimulus without overtaxing fatigable motor units. The RPE range that fits this approach is moderate effort, about 3 to 5 on a 0–10 scale. This level prompts enough work to improve endurance and strength while staying well below the point that triggers excessive fatigue or new weakness.

Pushing into higher intensities (6–8 or 8–10) can overwhelm the already stressed motor units and worsen fatigue and symptoms, which is why those ranges are avoided. Conversely, very light effort (1–3) may not produce meaningful training adaptations for many individuals.

So, the best range reflects a balance: enough challenge to gain benefit, but not so much that fatigue and symptom flares dominate. Keep monitoring fatigue, pain, and function, and adjust as needed.