Paralysis

Paralysis is a medical condition that affects the body’s ability to move and control muscles. It is caused by damage or interference with the signals between the brain and body, which can restrict the movement of particular body parts or lead to complete paralysis.

Paralysis happens when something goes wrong with the way messages pass between your brain and muscles. Paralysis can be complete or partial. It can occur on one or both sides of your body. It can also happen in just one area or be widespread. Paralysis of the lower half of your body, including both legs, is called paraplegia. Paralysis of the arms and legs is quadriplegia.

Paralysis can be caused by stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis (MS), cerebral palsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Guillain-Barré syndrome and other neurological disorders. It can also be caused by nerve damage due to prolonged compression, such as during a coma or after surgery. In some cases, paralysis may be caused by an underlying medical condition that has yet to be diagnosed.

Managing a healthy and safe lifestyle can reduce many risk factors for paralysis. For example, wearing protective gear during sports, avoiding excessive alcohol, maintaining healthy eating and regular exercise can reduce risk.

Other risk factors for paralysis may include:

• Trauma (accidents, injuries, gunshot wounds, spinal cord injuries and falls)
• Autoimmune diseases (multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome)
• Congenital conditions and congenital disabilities
• Vascular issues (strokes)
• Neurological diseases (muscular dystrophy, certain brain tumors, ALS)

The prevention of paralysis typically involves avoiding risk factors contributing to nerve damage. This includes wearing a seat belt while driving, maintaining good posture throughout the day, and avoiding activities that strain joints. Additionally, existing medical conditions, such as stroke or MS, may put some at higher risk for neurological damage; it is essential to talk to your doctor about preventative measures you can take.

The symptoms of paralysis vary depending on the location and severity of the damage. These may include a lack of sensation or feeling in certain areas, loss of mobility, weakness in the affected area, numbness, spasms, paralysis of one side of the body and/or difficulty with speech.

A medical professional typically diagnoses paralysis through physical and neurological exams and imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans. These methods help to identify the source of the paralysis and any underlying conditions that may be causing it.

Depending on the severity and underlying cause of paralysis, your care team may recommend one or more of the following treatment plans:

• Medications, such as pain relievers, anticonvulsants and muscle relaxants
• Surgery, such as nerve grafting, repair or spine surgery
• Neuromuscular blockers
• Physical, speech and occupational therapy
• Stem cell therapy
• Acupuncture to manage pain and improve muscle function
• Assistive devices such as prosthetics, wheelchairs, braces or walkers to assist with movement or voice-activated computers and smart home systems to improve mobility, independence and quality of life

Those living with paralysis may experience emotional challenges as a result of physical limitations. Daily tasks, like getting out of bed, bathing, using the restroom or dressing, may lead to feelings of isolation, grief or depression. Utilizing coping strategies, like finding a support group, managing medication, maintaining an exercise routine and making home modifications, can help to improve quality of life.