Paralysis (लकवा)

Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in part or all of the body due to disruption of nerve signals between the brain or spinal cord and muscles. It can be sudden or gradual, temporary or permanent, and its impact ranges from localized weakness to complete loss of movement and sensation.

Types of Paralysis

Monoplegia: Affects a single limb, such as one arm or leg.
Hemiplegia: Involves one side of the body, often following a stroke.
Paraplegia: Paralysis of both legs and possibly lower trunk, commonly due to spinal cord injury.
Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia): Affects all four limbs and torso, resulting from cervical spinal injuries.
Paresis: Partial paralysis where some muscle control or sensation remains (WebMD).

Common Causes

Stroke: Sudden interruption of blood flow damages brain regions controlling movement.
Spinal Cord Injury: Trauma from accidents or falls severs nerve pathways (Mayo Clinic).
Neurological Disorders: Multiple sclerosis, Guillain–Barré syndrome, and ALS impair nerve function.
Infections & Inflammation: Conditions like encephalitis or transverse myelitis can lead to paralysis.
Bell’s Palsy: Temporary facial paralysis due to facial nerve inflammation.

Recognizing Red Flags

Seek urgent medical care if paralysis appears:

Abruptly after head or neck trauma
With loss of bladder or bowel control
Accompanied by chest pain, severe headache, or altered consciousness
When affecting breathing or swallowing

How We Diagnose Paralysis

Clinical History & Exam: Detailed assessment of symptom onset, progression, and neurological function.
Imaging Studies: MRI or CT scans reveal brain or spinal cord lesions, disc herniation, or structural damage.
Electrophysiological Tests: Nerve conduction studies and EMG evaluate peripheral nerve and muscle integrity.
Laboratory Tests: Blood work to identify infections, autoimmune markers, or metabolic imbalances.

Treatment & Management

Our goal is to restore function where possible, prevent complications, and optimize independence:

1. Acute Management

Stabilization of airway, breathing, and circulation for severe spinal or brain injuries
High-dose steroids for acute spinal cord inflammation
Thrombolysis or thrombectomy if stroke is the cause

2. Rehabilitation Therapies

Physiotherapy: Strengthening exercises, gait training, and range-of-motion routines to prevent contractures.
Occupational Therapy: Adaptive equipment and techniques for daily activities and self-care.
Speech & Swallow Therapy: For facial or bulbar involvement affecting communication and nutrition.

3. Interventional & Surgical Options

Spinal Surgery: Decompression or stabilization for traumatic injuries and disc prolapse.
Nerve Repair & Grafting: Microsurgical techniques for peripheral nerve injuries.
Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES): Electrical impulses to activate paralyzed muscles.

4. Long-Term Support

Pressure-relief mattresses and regular repositioning to prevent pressure ulcers
Bowel and bladder training programs
Psychological counseling and support groups for emotional well-being

Living Well Beyond Paralysis

Maintain optimal nutrition and skin care to support healing.
Engage in accessible exercise programs (wheelchair sports, aquatic therapy).
Utilize assistive technologies—voice-activated devices, mobility aids, and environmental controls.
Plan routine follow-up visits to monitor for complications and adjust care plans.

When to Reach Out

Early intervention and a tailored rehabilitation plan can significantly improve outcomes. If you or a loved one experiences weakness, loss of movement, or sudden paralysis, please schedule a consultation:

Together, we will harness advanced neurological care and compassionate support to help you regain independence and quality of life.