What does paraplegia mean?
Paraplegia is the medical term for paralysis that mainly affects the lower body, especially both legs, while leaving the arms and upper body functional. It commonly results from a significant injury or disease affecting the spinal cord, although the exact pattern and severity depend on the location and extent of the damage. The word is used in medical care, disability studies, rehabilitation, and public discussion about mobility, independence, and accessibility. In general writing, “paraplegia” is more precise than the broad word “paralysis,” because it identifies the affected parts of the body. The expression “complete paraplegia” generally indicates the absence of voluntary movement and sensation below the relevant level of injury, while “incomplete paraplegia” indicates that some sensory or motor function remains. The term is not usually used for paralysis caused by a condition affecting only one leg, and it should not be confused with quadriplegia, which affects all four limbs.
nounParalysis affecting the lower part of the body, especially both legs, while the upper limbs remain unaffected. The term is most commonly used for the loss of voluntary movement and sensation in the legs.
- Paralysis of the lower part of the body, especially both legs, with relative preservation of the arms and upper body.
"After the accident, his paraplegia required him to use a wheelchair."
"Paraplegia can result from a severe injury to the spinal cord."
"Research has improved mobility and independence for people living with paraplegia."
The plural is rare in ordinary usage; writers often say “cases of paraplegia” or refer to “people with paraplegia” instead.
"The documentary examines the experiences of people with paraplegia."
The word comes from Greek roots meaning “beside” and “strike,” an apt reminder that paraplegia results from damage affecting the body alongside, and below, the arms.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of paraplegia
Paraplegia was formed in the early 19th century from Greek para-, meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and -plegia, from the Greek root for “strike,” used in medical terminology for paralysis. Its components reflect the historical classification of paralysis according to the affected regions of the body. The related terms hemiplegia, diplegia, and quadriplegia were developed within the same medical vocabulary, using different numerical and regional prefixes to describe their patterns of paralysis.
Related word forms
How paraplegia is actually used
In medical and disability contexts, the term is commonly used for paralysis of both lower limbs, although precise clinical classifications may distinguish complete from incomplete paraplegia. It is more technical than simply saying “paralysis” and should be used respectfully and accurately.
Easily confused with paraplegia
Paraplegia primarily affects the lower limbs, whereas quadriplegia affects all four limbs.
Paraplegia generally implies paralysis of both lower limbs, while diplegia is a broader term for paralysis affecting corresponding limbs on both sides, including the arms.