Paraplegia

Paraplegia is a type of paralysis that affects the lower extremities, including the legs and, in some cases, parts of the trunk. It is typically caused by injury or disease affecting the spinal cord below the first thoracic spinal nerve.

Classification

Paraplegia is often classified according to the level of injury or the extent of paralysis. Complete paraplegia refers to the total loss of sensation and movement below the level of injury, while incomplete paraplegia means some function remains below the level of the injury.

Causes

The most common causes of paraplegia include traumatic injuries, such as car accidents or falls, and diseases, such as spinal cord tumors, spina bifida, or transverse myelitis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of paraplegia is typically made through a combination of physical examination, patient history, and imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans.

Management and Treatment

While there is currently no cure for paraplegia, treatments focus on helping individuals maintain as much independence and quality of life as possible. This can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and sometimes surgery. Assistive devices such as wheelchairs or braces may also be used.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with paraplegia varies greatly depending on the cause, level, and completeness of the injury. Many individuals with paraplegia lead active and fulfilling lives with the help of adaptive technologies and therapies.

See Also

• Quadriplegia
• Spinal cord injury

References

• Furlan, J. C., Sakakibara, B. M., Miller, W. C., & Krassioukov, A. V. (2013). Global incidence and prevalence of traumatic spinal cord injury. Canadian journal of neurological sciences, 40(4), 456-464.
• McDonald, J. W., & Sadowsky, C. (2002). Spinal-cord injury. The Lancet, 359(9304), 417-425.

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