Post by Lαrα on Apr 12, 2014 2:50:48 GMT -8
Many people use the term 'incomplete paraplegic' but in fact it should be referred to as 'paraparetic' (paraparesis).
This link explains briefly Paraparesis or incomplete paraplegia.
''Paraparetic (paraparesis) refers to partial loss of function of the lower limbs(-paresis) and paraplegia (-plegia) affects completely the lower limbs ( in my understanding)
Definition of paresis: a condition of muscular weakness caused by nerve damage or disease; partial paralysis. (Source)
A paraparetic will experience weakness in their legs due to reduced function to the muscles.
Paraparesis occurs when part (not all) of the Spinal Cord is damaged...this is known as an 'incomplete lesion'.With an incomplete lesion the individual will may still have feeling but little movement below the injury level or alternatively could have no feeling (or partial) and have more movement.
How each person is affected will vary from one person to another because it will depend on the degree of damage to the individual's nerve fibres within the cord that are damaged.
This forum thread on paraplegia explains more: Paraplegia
Some individuals with paraparesis will be able to walk but most will need varying degrees of assistance, this will be dependent on how much muscle power they are left with in their legs/hip area but then some will be limited and not be able to walk far.
Others will not have enough muscle power/strength so they may not be walkers at all but still have some movement in their legs but just to a lesser degree.
Either way...many 'incompletes' may still use a wheelchair for their mode of mobility either for all/most or some of their time. Walking obviously has many advantages for the body but there are also problems associated and experienced by individuals who walk with reduced sensation/muscle power.
Sources: Here and here
