California Paralysis Attorneys
Paralysis, Paraplegia and Quadriplegia
When a person can no longer voluntarily control or move the tendons, joints and muscles in an area of the body, he or she is suffering from paralysis. This loss of function typically occurs because something damages a portion of the spinal cord. The spinal cord extends from the brain, and these two structures work together to deliver messages to and control all parts of the body.
To understand how paralysis occurs, picture messages and impulses leaving the brain and traveling all the way down the spinal cord. The brain is able to deliver information to all parts of the body because messages can travel to any section of the spinal cord. Now imagine that the spinal cord is severed two-thirds of the way down the back. The continuous line of communication is broken, and therefore, the spinal cord cannot transmit messages from the brain past this point. As a result, there is paralysis in the parts of the body below the break.
Causes of Paralysis
Any of the following can paralyze an individual:
- Car accidents
- Diving accidents
- Gunshots or violent attacks
- Sports injuries (particularly injuries related to high-impact sports such as football)
- Boating accidents
- Falls
- Diseases such as multiple sclerosis
- Tumors
What Is Paraplegia?
A spinal cord injury below the first thoracic spinal nerve typically causes paraplegia. This is associated with a loss of function of the lower parts of the body. For instance, an individual may lose control of his or her legs, bladder, hips and abdomen. A person with paraplegia, however, will still be able to use his or her hands and arms as he or she always did. For this reason, many people with paraplegia are able to maintain their independence.
What Is Quadriplegia?
A spinal cord injury above the first thoracic spinal nerve typically causes quadriplegia. A brain injury can also cause quadriplegia. The trauma paralyzes all areas of the body below the site of the injury, and the person will typically lose control of all four limbs. He or she may even lose the ability to breathe independently. Not surprisingly, quadriplegia will impact a person in a much more profound way than paraplegia does in most instances. Individuals will typically require extensive assistance to perform daily tasks and may need to remain in an assisted living facility indefinitely.
If you or a loved one has suffered from paralysis, paraplegia or quadriplegia, please contact The Brain Injury Legal Help Center immediately at (800) 610-1892. Our California severe brain injury lawyers are available to discuss your claim with you and answer any case related questions that you may have. Call today.