Paralysis

Paralysis: What Is It?

Paralysis is a medical condition that results in the inability to move and/or feel part or all of the body. It can be caused by damage to the spinal cord and/or brain, such as a stroke, tumor or trauma. When the connection between the brain and the body is disrupted, the result is paralysis. In some cases, paralysis is temporary and in some cases it's permanent.

Types of Paralysis

Paralysis can be generalized or localized. Generalized paralysis affects the entire body, while localized paralysis affects only certain areas. Types of paralysis include:

Tetraplegia/Quadriplegia: Paralysis of all four limbs
Paraplegia: Paralysis of both legs and/or lower body
Monoplegia: Paralysis of a single limb
Hemiplegia: Paralysis of one arm and one leg on the same side of the body
Diplegia: Paralysis of both arms and/or legs on the same side of the body

Causes of Paralysis

The most common cause of paralysis is a stroke, which typically causes temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the body. Other causes include:

Traumatic brain injury
Cerebral Palsy
Spinal cord injury
Multiple Sclerosis
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Infections such as polio, West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and meningitis
Brain Tumors
Guillian-Barre Syndrome

Treatments for Paralysis

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for paralysis, and the type of treatment will vary depending on the cause and severity. Treatments may include physical therapy, medication, lifestyle modifications, and in certain cases, surgery. Assistive devices such as wheelchairs and walkers may also help those with paralysis be more independent.