What is a paraplegic person?

Paraplegia is a form of paralysis that mostly affects the movement of the lower body. People with paraplegia may be unable to voluntarily move their legs, feet, and sometimes their abdomen. Some people experience incomplete paraplegia. This is the case when the paralysis only affects one leg.

What is a paraplegic vs quadriplegic?

Paraplegia refers to the loss of movement and sensation in both legs and, sometimes, part of the lower abdomen. Quadriplegia affects all four limbs and, sometimes, parts of the chest, abdomen, and back. Both are forms of paralysis that often result from injury to the spinal cord.

Are paraplegics disabled?

Individuals with paraplegia may face a broad range of symptoms, affecting one’s ability to work differently. The Social Security Administration (SSA) lists the criteria for disability benefits in the Social Security Blue Book. Section 1.04 addresses disorders of the spine.

Is paraplegia the same as paralysis?

Paralysis can be complete or partial. It can occur on one or both sides of your body. It can also occur in just one area, or it can be widespread. Paralysis of the lower half of your body, including both legs, is called paraplegia.

What does paraplegic mean in the Medical Dictionary?

Also found in: Thesaurus, Medical, Encyclopedia, Wikipedia . n. Complete paralysis of the lower half of the body including both legs, usually caused by damage to the spinal cord.

What are some of the complications of paraplegia?

These complications include pressure ulcers, respiratory disorders, orthopedic deformities, urinary tract infections or calculi, and gastrointestinal disorders. The psychological and emotional aspects of paraplegia also must be considered.

What should patient care be like for a paraplegic?

Patient Care. Because rehabilitation is the ultimate goal for a paraplegic patient, the patient care during the early stages of the disorder must be particularly concerned with preventing complications that may stand in the way of successful rehabilitation.

Why do people with paraplegia have perfectly healthy legs?

Most people with paraplegia have perfectly healthy legs. Instead, the problem resides in either the brain or the spinal cord, which cannot send or receive signals to the lower body due to an injury or disease. Like other forms of paralysis, paraplegia substantially varies from one person to another.