Medical Liability Consultants, Inc. Glossary Medical Malpractice

Paralysis Paralysis is an individual's complete loss of strength in an affected limb or muscle group. Depending on what areas of the body are affected determines what type of paralysis the individual is suffering from. Paraplegia is partial or complete paralysis of the legs and quadriplegia is the partial or complete paralysis of the arms and the legs. Paralysis often results from a spinal cord injury or a stroke. Spinal cord injuries have affected the two million people currently living with them, most often caused from vehicle accidents, violence, falls, and sports. Paralysis is a grave diagnosis due to its permanent state. Depending on how serious the stroke was or where the spinal cord injury took place will determine how bad the paralysis is. An injury causing paralysis can be the result of a personal injury, medical malpractice, or a birth injury. If you suspect you, or a family member, is now suffering from paralysis because of another person's negligence, please contact us to speak with a lawyer by selecting a state. Paralysis is a life-altering condition that creates physical, financial, and emotional hardships and often eliminates the ability to participate in former everyday jobs and activities as a result. What Causes Paralysis? Paralysis results because damage has occurred at any point on the chain of nerve cells that runs from the brain through the spinal cord out to the muscle. When damage occurs, the brain's ability to control the muscle's movements has been completely eliminated and not allowing any intended movement, signifying paralysis. Muscle tone change normally results with paralysis, most often causing either a flabby appearance or a tight appearance. Types of Paralysis Although paraplegia and quadriplegia are the most common forms of paralysis, there are five different types classified by the region of the body affected. Monoplegia - paralysis affects only one limb Hiplegia - paralysis affects the same body region on both sides of the body Hemiplegia - paralysis affects one side of the body Paraplegia - paralysis of the legs Quadriplegia - paralysis of the arms and the legs The nerve damage causing this paralysis is the result of brain or spinal cord accidents. Treatment & Recovery The only way to treat paralysis is to help patients adjust to their loss of muscle control and movement. The only way to recover from paralysis is dependent on how much damage has been done to the nervous system.

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