Definition

Paralysis is a problem moving the body due to disease or injury to the nervous system. There are two types:

• Paraplegia—full or partial paralysis of the lower half of the body
• Quadriplegia, sometimes called tetraplegia—paralysis of both legs and both arms

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Causes

Paraplegia happens when there is damage below the neck. Quadriplegia happens when the damage is at the base of the neck or skull.

The most common cause is trauma, such as from a sports injury, car accident, or fall. Other causes are:

• Multiple sclerosis
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Quadriplegia Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of these problems are:

• Playing certain sports, such as football, rugby, wrestling, gymnastics, diving, surfing, ice hockey, and downhill skiing
• A family history of certain inherited nerve diseases
• History of cancer—can cause pressure on the spinal cord

Symptoms

Paralysis may be total or partial. It depends on how much of the spinal cord is damaged. Other problems may be:

• Loss of bladder or bowel control—incontinence
• Loss of sexual function
• Trouble breathing
• Problems sitting upright

Inactivity can lead to other problems, such as:

• Pressure sores
• Abnormal muscle tightness
• Pneumonia
• Urinary tract infection
• Weakened bones
• Chronic pain

People may also become depressed because of:

• Lack of social and emotional support
• Being more dependence on others

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. Many health specialists will be involved in the diagnosis.

Blood tests will be done. The fluid around the brain and spine may also be tested. This can be done with a lumbar puncture.

Images may need to be taken of the spine. This can be done with:

• CT scan
• MRI scan
• Myelography (rarely used)

Nerve function may be tested. This can be done with:

• Nerve conduction study
• Somatosensory evoked potentials (rarely used)

Treatment

Emergency care will be needed. It can prevent further damage. Choices are:

• Steroids and other medicines to lessen damage to nerves and nearby tissue
• Surgery to stabilize the spine or ease pressure on it

Prevention

Paraplegia is often due to accidents that cannot be prevented.