Paraplegia is paralysis of the lower body, which affects both legs. Paralysis that affects the arms and legs is a tetraplegia.
The spinal cord is the main means of communication between the brain and the rest of the body. A cylindrical rib structure extends from the brain stem and ends at the first lumbar vertebrae.
The bone is protected by the vertebrae of the spine. Trauma to the spinal cord is usually caused by a blow that fractures or a dislocated vertebra. In a complete spinal cord injury, the spinal cord cannot transmit messages below the level of injury. As a result, the patient is paralyzed below that point.
If the spinal cord is injured, it does not regenerate. This means that if there is an injury to the nerve (axons) or within the bone marrow the spinal cord suffers and cannot heal or reconnect. Therefore, lesions in the spinal cord usually result in permanent paralysis.
The most common causes of spinal cord injuries include:
- Traffic accidents (wearing a seat belt greatly reduces the risk of serious injury in a car accident).
- Violence.
- Falls and not using protective equipment at work or at play.
- Injuries related to high-risk physical activities and diving into shallow water.
If you are present when an accident occurs, immobilise the injured person’s spine. Do not try to realign simply prevents the injured person moves. Keep the person absolutely still and safe until medical help arrives.
More information in:
Spinal Cord Injury: Quadriplegic and Paraplegic Injuries
http://www.apparelyzed.com/
United Spinal Association
http://www.unitedspinal.org/