Tetraplegia

Tetraplegia, also known as quadriplegia, is defined as the dysfunction or loss of motor or sensory function in all four limbs, typically caused by damage to the cervical area of the spinal cord. A loss of motor function can present as either weakness or paralysis leading to partial or total loss of function in the arms, legs, trunk, and pelvis (paraplegia is similar but affects the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral segments of the spinal cord, and arm function is retained). The paralysis may be flaccid or spastic. A loss of sensory function can present as an impairment or complete inability to sense light touch, pressure, heat, pinprick/pain, and proprioception. In these types of spinal cord or peripheral nerve injury, it is common to have a loss of both sensation and motor control.