Spinal cord injury (SCI) is life-altering and typically leads to different types of paralysis. The level of paralysis will depend on where the injury occurred along the spinal cord. In St. Petersburg, SCI patients could lose a significant amount of mobility, independence, and quality of life.
For St. Petersburg victims of spinal cord injuries, dealing with the legal and medical aspects of the injury proves too much for them. Having a St. Petersburg spinal cord injury attorney can help the victims understand their rights, request compensation for medical expenses and lost wages, and obtain the resources that they require to receive long-term care.
Below are the main types of paralysis associated with spinal cord injuries.
Monoplegia
Monoplegia is the paralysis that affects a single limb, either a leg or an arm. Paralysis like this typically occurs due to damage to the nerves that regulate movement in the affected limb. While spinal cord injury results in monoplegia, it is actually more commonly associated with nerve damage, stroke, or cerebral palsy.
Monoplegia patients retain full function in the rest of their body and can exhibit weakness, numbness, or loss of function in the affected limb. Physical therapy and rehabilitation may help improve mobility.
Hemiplegia
Hemiplegia is paralysis that affects one side of the body, including the arm and leg on that side. It typically results from spinal cord injuries that disrupt nerve pathways controlling movement on one half of the body. Hemiplegia can also be caused by strokes or brain injuries.
In some cases, individuals experience muscle stiffness, difficulty with coordination, or involuntary muscle contractions. Treatment focuses on physical therapy, assistive devices, and muscle-strengthening exercises to regain function.
Paraplegia
Paraplegia is the loss of movement and sensation in both legs and, in some cases, parts of the lower torso. It is caused by spinal cord injuries in the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral regions. Individuals with paraplegia lose the ability to walk and may also experience issues with bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and circulation.
While paralysis is often permanent, rehabilitation programs, assistive devices like wheelchairs, and new medical treatments such as nerve stimulation and exoskeletons can help improve mobility and independence.
Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia)
Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, is the most severe form of paralysis, affecting all four limbs and the torso. It occurs when the spinal cord is damaged in the cervical (neck) region.
Depending on the severity of the injury, individuals with quadriplegia may also lose control of vital functions such as breathing, requiring ventilator support. Quadriplegia often leads to complete dependence on caregivers for daily activities, but advancements in rehabilitation, adaptive technology, and physical therapy can enhance quality of life.
Spinal cord injuries can drastically alter a person’s ability to move and function. While some cases of paralysis are partial and may improve with therapy, others result in permanent loss of mobility. Early intervention, rehabilitation, and assistive technologies play a crucial role in helping individuals with paralysis regain independence, confidence, and improve their overall well-being.
