Paraplegia is paralysis of both lower limbs. It is the loss of motor function following a spinal cord injury in the 7th cervical vertebra and above the lumbar vertebra L2. The injury prevents the brain's electrical signals to communicate with muscles. A higher injury causes tetraplegia (paralysis of all four limbs).
It is said that paraplegia is complete when the sensitivity is totally absent. Paraplegia is said to be incomplete when there are sensitive and the perineal area* is not affected.
The lesion may be caused by an accident (fall, car accident, gunshot wound), by disease (polio, multiple sclerosis), following an infection or a malformation.
Paraplegia brings complications sometimes skin, joints, urinary and bowel.
Skin problems are caused by constant compression (always the same point of support). It is necessary to disinfect the wound and avoid lying on the wound using a bandage for this purpose.
To avoid joint problems, it is sufficient to regularly move the joints of paralyzed limbs by using the upper limbs. Where possible, adopt the standing position at least 1 hour per day using a wheelchair or braces may adopt the standing position. Practicing a sport wheelchair allows the upper to keep fit.
It is important to treat a urinary tract infection quickly.
* PERINEUM : region of the body between the anus and genitals.13 avril 2010
| The text above is for information purposes only. Only a doctor can diagnose a disease. No treatment (medication or scheme) should be undertaken without consulting a health professional. |