Paralysis refers to the inability, or reduced ability of the body to voluntarily move muscles and create movement. This usually occurs when the spinal cord is damaged. The nerves that attach to the spinal cord below the level of injury are no longer able to innervate the affected muscles. The higher up the spinal cord the injury, the greater the portion of the body that will be paralysed.
Paralysis may also occur when the nerve itself that innervates a muscle is affected (rather than the spinal cord). An example of this is Bell’s Palsy. It can also occur when the muscle is directly injured.
Paralysis can be either complete or incomplete. Complete paralysis is where there is a total loss of function in the muscles. Incomplete paralysis occurs when some level of muscle function remains.
The majority of paralyses are permanent, however some conditions are temporary.
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References:
MDA Internet 2007, Reed Group, viewed 23 February 2007, http://www.mdainternet.com (secure site)
Links to specific types of paralysis:
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