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Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, is a form of paralysis that results in the partial or total loss of use of all four limbs and torso. The loss is usually sensory and motor, which means that both sensation and control are lost. Quadriplegia is typically caused by damage to the brain or the spinal cord at a high level C1–C7. In general, the higher the injury, the more severe the symptoms.

Causes

Quadriplegia can be caused by a number of conditions, including:

• Traumatic brain injury
• Spinal cord injury
• Stroke
• Cerebral palsy
• Multiple sclerosis
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
• Transverse myelitis
• Polio

Symptoms

Symptoms of quadriplegia can vary greatly depending on the cause and level of injury. Some common symptoms include:

• Loss of movement in all four limbs
• Loss of sensation and control below the level of injury
• Difficulty with breathing and coughing
• Problems with heart rate and blood pressure
• Difficulty with bladder and bowel control
• Chronic pain

Treatment

There is currently no cure for quadriplegia. Treatment focuses on helping to improve a person's quality of life and independence. Treatment options can include:

• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Assistive technology
• Medication
• Surgery

See also

• Paraplegia
• Hemiplegia
• Paresis

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