What is Paraplegia?

Paraplegia is a type of paralysis that affects the lower body. It is caused by a large injury or disease in the spinal cord, typically in the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral region. This damage halts the brain's message to the legs. This person is unable to move his/her legs independently and frequently experiences loss of sensation in his/her lower body. While quadriplegia involves all 4 limbs, paraplegia does not involve the arms and hands.

How common is Paraplegia?

Paraplegia is a relatively common neurological condition resulting from spinal cord injuries. There are millions of people worldwide living with various degrees of spinal cord damage. It is most frequently seen in young adults, particularly men, due to a higher frequency of traumatic accidents. However, non-traumatic causes are increasingly common in older populations.

What are the symptoms of Paraplegia?

The symptoms of paraplegia depend on whether the spinal cord damage is complete or incomplete. Common signs include:

• Loss of Movement: An inability to move the legs or feet.
• Loss of Sensation: Being unable to feel touch, heat, or cold in the lower body.
• Spasticity: Involuntary muscle spasms or stiffness in the legs.
• Loss of Bladder and Bowel Control: Inability to manage these functions normally.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Changes in sexual function and fertility.
• Neuropathic Pain: Phantom pains or tingling sensations in the affected areas.
• Phantom Sensations: Feeling as if the legs are in a different position than they actually are.

What are the symptoms of Paraplegia?

The causes are generally divided into traumatic and non-traumatic categories:

• Traumatic Injury: Road accidents, falls, sports injuries, or physical violence that fractures or dislocates vertebrae.
• Tumors that can cause pressure on the spinal cord and nerves
• Infections: Transverse myelitis or abscesses that cause inflammation.
• Vascular Issues: Blood flow is restricted in the spinal cord during a stroke.
• Degenerative Diseases: Severe spinal stenosis or herniated discs that compress the cord over time.
• Congenital Conditions: Birth defects like spina bifida.

What are the complications of Paraplegia?

Because the body is not moving as it once did, several secondary health issues can arise:

• Pressure Sores: Skin breakdown from sitting or lying in one position too long.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Blood clots in the legs due to a lack of movement.
• Autonomic Dysreflexia: A dangerous, sudden spike in blood pressure triggered by a stimulus below the injury.
• Muscle Atrophy: Wasting away of leg muscles.
• Osteoporosis: Loss of bone density in the legs because they no longer bear weight.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Frequent infections due to the use of catheters or incomplete bladder emptying.

How do doctors diagnose Paraplegia?

A neurologist will perform a thorough physical examination to determine the level of the injury. Key tests include:

• MRI Scan: The gold standard for seeing damage to the spinal cord, discs, and soft tissues.
• CT Scan: Useful for looking at the bony structures of the vertebrae.
• X-rays: To identify fractures or dislocations in the spine.
• Neurological Mapping: Testing various points on the skin for sensation to find the exact location of the spinal lesion.

How is Paraplegia treated?

While there is currently no way to repair a severed spinal cord, treatment focuses on stabilization and independence:

• Emergency Surgery: To realign the spine or remove fragments pressing on the cord.
• Rehabilitation: Intensive physical and occupational therapy to learn how to live independently.
• Medications: To manage pain, muscle spasms, and bladder function.
• Assistive Technology: Wheelchairs, standing frames, and modified vehicles.
• Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES): Using small electrical pulses to help muscles move.

What can I expect if I have Paraplegia?

Living with paraplegia requires significant adjustment, but it is not a barrier to a full life. Most people with paraplegia can lead independent, productive lives. They can work, drive modified cars, and participate in sports. The goal is to prevent complications and maintain upper-body health.

How can Paraplegia be prevented?

Prevention may include:

• Road Safety: Always wear seatbelts and drive safely.
• Protective Gear: Using appropriate helmets and padding during high-risk sports.
• Fall Prevention: Ensuring a safe environment for the elderly.
• Medical Management: Early treatment of spinal infections or tumors before they damage the cord.

How do I take care of myself?

Skin care is your top priority; perform daily skin checks to look for redness. Stay active by using your arms and engaging in adapted sports. Drink plenty of water to help your kidneys and bladder. Joining a peer support group can be incredibly helpful for learning practical tips for daily living.

When should I see my doctor?

Contact your neurologist or seek emergency care if you notice:

• A sudden change in your level of sensation.
• Symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia include a severe headache, sweating, and high blood pressure.
• Any skin wound that is not healing.
• Fever or cloudy urine, which could indicate a kidney infection.

Why choose Tender Palm Super Specialty Hospital for Paraplegia treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital offers advanced Paraplegia treatment in Lucknow at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced neurologists, neurosurgeons, spine specialists, and rehabilitation specialists who provide accurate diagnosis, personalized neurological care, and advanced treatment for Paraplegia. Our neurosciences team has extensive experience in successfully treating Paraplegia in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Paraplegia treatment in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

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