Definition | Diagnosis | Treatment | Prognosis | Differential Diagnosis | Specialists | Rehabilitation | Comorbid Conditions | Complications | Factors Influencing Duration | Length of Disability | Return to Work | Failure to Recover | Medical Codes | Hospital Costs | References

Paralysis, Paraplegia, and Quadriplegia

Factors Influencing Duration

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Medical Codes

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Prognosis

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Paralysis Paralysis from spinal cord injury may be temporary, and partial function may be regained as the swelling subsides. Improvement can begin as early as 3 weeks after the initial injury, and after 1 year, the level of functioning usually stabilizes at one to two levels below the injury site. Surgery to remove tumors in the spinal cord can relieve pain and pressure and improve neurological deficits. Paraplegia Decompression of the spinal cord or nerve roots and spinal stabilization may result in improvement in pain, neurological deficits, and the individual's ability to walk. Identification of the individual's symptoms allows for appropriate surgical intervention. Recent evidence suggests that the life expectancy of those with spinal cord injuries is improving. Regardless of total life expectancy, individuals with permanent spinal cord injury are at risk for complications and recurrent health problems. Those with paraplegia usually become more independent over time, resulting in a higher life expectancy than quadriplegics. The prescription of treatment systems, including mobile standing devices and orthoses to enable individuals with spinal lesions to walk, is widely practiced and can provide relief from secondary medical complications and improvement in quality of life. Individuals with hereditary spastic paraplegia may have a normal life expectancy; the severity of symptoms varies among those affected (Paik). Quadriplegia Decompression of the spinal cord or nerve roots and spinal stabilization may result in improvement in pain, neurological deficits, and the individual’s ability to walk. Identification of the individual's symptoms allows for appropriate surgical intervention with favorable results. Recent evidence suggests that the life expectancy of those with spinal cord injuries is improving, but those with quadriplegia generally have a lower life expectancy. Regardless of total life expectancy, individuals can expect to have recurrent health problems due to their quadriplegia. The prescription of treatment systems, including mobile standing devices and orthoses to enable individuals with spinal lesions to walk, is widely practiced and can provide relief from secondary medical complications and improvement in quality of life.

Source: Medical Disability Advisor

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