What does monoplegia mean?
Monoplegia is a medical term for paralysis confined to a single limb or a localized part of the body. A person with monoplegia may, for example, be unable to move one arm while retaining movement in the other arm and both legs. The term distinguishes a highly localized impairment from hemiplegia, which affects one side of the body, and from paraplegia, which affects the lower limbs. Monoplegia can result from damage to the nerves, spinal cord, brain, or blood supply, depending on the affected area. Because it specifies both the presence and the limited distribution of paralysis, it is especially useful in neurological examinations and medical records. The word combines the Greek elements meaning “one” and “paralysis,” reflecting its narrow clinical focus.
nounParalysis affecting a single limb or part of the body, such as one arm or one leg. It is a localized form of paralysis, distinct from paralysis affecting one side of the body or both lower limbs.
- Paralysis confined to a single limb or localized part of the body.
"Her monoplegia left her unable to lift her right arm."
"The examination showed monoplegia of the left leg without any obvious injury to the other limbs."
"Monoplegia can occur when a nerve supplying one arm is severely damaged."
The plural is used when referring to separate cases or instances of the condition.
"The textbook describes several rare monoplegias caused by isolated nerve injuries."
Monoplegia is paralysis with a remarkably specific scope: the trouble is confined to one limb rather than the whole body or an entire side.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of monoplegia
Monoplegia was formed in the 19th century from Greek mono-, meaning “single” or “one,” and -plegia, meaning “paralysis.” The latter element comes from Greek plēgē, “stroke” or “paralysis,” and is also found in related medical terms such as hemiplegia and paraplegia. The prefix reflects the defining feature of the condition: paralysis limited to one limb or body part rather than to a broader region.
Related word forms
How monoplegia is actually used
This is a specialized medical term, used in clinical and neurological contexts. It is more precise than simply saying that a limb is paralyzed and should not be confused with hemiplegia, which affects one side of the body.
Easily confused with monoplegia
Monoplegia affects one limb or body part, whereas hemiplegia affects one side of the body, typically including the arm and leg on that side.