| Definition | Paralysis of the lower limbs and lower trunk | Paralysis of both the upper and lower limbs |
| Extent of Paralysis | Involves the legs, hips, and sometimes parts of the trunk | Involves the arms, legs, trunk, and pelvic organs |
| Motor Function | Impaired or lost function in the lower body muscles | Impaired or lost function in both upper and lower body muscles |
| Sensory Function | Sensation may be affected or lost below the level of injury | Sensation may be affected or lost below the level of injury |
| Level of Injury | Typically caused by spinal cord injury at thoracic or lumbar regions | Typically caused by spinal cord injury at cervical (neck) region |
| Upper Limb Function | Generally unaffected or minimally affected | Impaired or lost function in the upper limbs |
| Lower Limb Function | Impaired or lost function in the lower limbs | Impaired or lost function in the lower limbs |
| Trunk Function | Trunk control may be partially preserved | Trunk control may be limited or absent |
| Bladder and Bowel Control | May retain some degree of control | May experience loss of bladder and bowel control |
| Respiratory Function | Usually unaffected | May experience respiratory complications depending on the level of injury |
| Assistive Devices | Can potentially use a wheelchair for mobility | May require a power wheelchair or assistive devices for mobility |
| Rehabilitation Needs | Focuses on lower limb function, mobility, and independence | Focuses on upper limb function, trunk stability, mobility, and independence |
| Emotional Impact | Individual’s emotional response may vary | May experience additional emotional challenges due to loss of upper limb function |
| Prognosis | Depends on the underlying cause and level of injury | Depends on the underlying cause and level of injury |
Biology Ease Staff asked 2 years ago