Paraplegia and how we care for it
Paraplegia is diagnosed when the spinal cord of the person is partially or completely damaged by an injury. Birth conditions, such as hereditary spastic paraplegia and bifid spine can also be the cause, although it is rare.
The limbs below the vertebrae that are affected become paralyzed and the person cannot feel them. If the torso and legs are affected it is called paraplegia. Regardless of the vertebrae affected, loss of bladder and bowel control and sexual dysfunction are symptoms of paraplegia.
Paraplegia has two principal categories:
- Complete
- Incomplete
Complete Paraplegia: The nerves are completely severed at a specific point. Depending on the location of the injury, arms, legs, and torso are completely paralyzed, with a complete lack of muscle strength and sensitivity.
Incomplete Paraplegia: The nerves are severely damaged but not completely severed. Muscular strength and sensitivity are partially preserved.
- Monoplegia: Affects only one area of the body (a leg for example).
- Hemiplegia: One side of the body is completely affected.
- Tetraplegia: Affects both sides of the body. Only the neck upwards can function.
Paraplegia usually occurs as a result of accidental injuries. Sports and car accidents are the most common reason. Surgical procedures can also damage the spine, resulting in paraplegia.
Cancer can also be caused if blood clots or tumors grow within the spinal cord. Spina bifida is another condition that causes paraplegia. That occurs when the baby doesn’t develop the spinal cord completely in the womb, getting a gap in the spine.
As mentioned, there are two types of paraplegia. Depending on the category the symptoms vary in degree of severity but are the same in both cases.
Currently, there is no cure for paraplegia but there are treatments and therapies to improve mobility or prevent further deterioration. Doctors might prescribe medicine to avoid blood clots and enhance bowel, and bladder movements.
Physical and occupational therapy are suggested so the patient can recover from the injury and regain partial or full movement of the affected area.
Therapy can start the first week after the patient is released from the hospital. It can take up to 6 months to see some improvement. Until this day, technology is working to reestablish full movement in individuals with paraplegia.
Skilled nursing is needed for a person that suffers from this condition. They will assist with movement therapy to avoid blood clots and help them with day-to-day activities. Depending on the severity of the injury, the patient might need more than one nurse or 24-hour care.
We also have the best therapists to improve the patient’s life and help them adapt better to their new lifestyle.
For more information on how Signature Health Services can help with your healthcare needs, please call 1 (800) 277-8291 or email information@signaturehealthservices.net.
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