Paraplegia

Overview

Paraplegia is a form of paralysis that affects the lower half of the body, including the legs. It is typically caused by spinal cord injury or a congenital condition such as spina bifida which affects the neural elements of the spinal canal. The degree of paraplegia can vary greatly depending on the specific injury or condition.

Components of Paraplegia

1. Motor Function Impairment
   • This refers to the loss of muscle function in the lower half of the body. Individuals with paraplegia may not be able to move their legs or feet.
2. Sensory Function Impairment
   • This involves a loss of sensation in the lower half of the body. Individuals may not be able to feel temperature, touch, pain, or know where their lower limbs are in space.
3. Autonomic Function Impairment
   • This refers to the loss of unconscious functions including those of the bladder, bowel, sexual, and some cardiovascular functions.

Functions of the Paraplegic System

The functions that are typically affected by paraplegia include:

1. Mobility: Paraplegia affects an individual's ability to move the lower half of their body. This can make it difficult for them to walk or move without assistance.
2. Sensation: Paraplegia often results in a loss of sensation in the lower half of the body. This means that individuals may not be able to feel pain, temperature, or touch in their legs or feet.
3. Autonomic Functions: Paraplegia can also affect autonomic functions such as bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and cardiovascular function.

Diseases and Disorders Associated with Paraplegia

Paraplegia is often associated with the following conditions:

1. Spinal Cord Injury: This is the most common cause of paraplegia. It occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord that disrupts communication between the brain and the muscles.
2. Spina Bifida: This is a birth defect that occurs when the spine and spinal cord don't form properly, often resulting in paraplegia.
3. Transverse Myelitis: This is a neurological disorder caused by inflammation across both sides of one level, or segment, of the spinal cord. The inflammation can damage or destroy myelin, the fatty insulating substance that covers nerve cell fibers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to 'Paraplegia'

1. What is paraplegia?
   • Paraplegia is a medical condition characterized by the impairment in motor or sensory function of the lower extremities. It is usually caused by spinal cord injury or a congenital condition that affects the neural elements of the spinal canal.
2. What causes paraplegia?
   • Paraplegia is most commonly caused by a spinal cord injury. It can also be caused by congenital conditions such as spina bifida, or diseases that affect the nerves such as transverse myelitis.
3. Can paraplegia be cured?
   • Currently, there is no cure for paraplegia. However, with physical therapy and other treatments, many people with paraplegia can lead active, independent lives.

: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2020). Paraplegia Information Page. Retrieved from NINDS : Mayo Clinic. (2019). Spinal cord injury. Retrieved from Mayo Clinic : National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2020). Spina Bifida Information Page. Retrieved from NINDS : National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2020). Transverse Myelitis Information Page. Retrieved from NINDS