Paraplegia & patient lifts

What is a paraplegia?

When we speak of a paraplegia this means that there is an interruption of the spinal cord and the nerves that run through the spinal cord (whether or not fully = complete or partial = incomplete lesion). This causes a fallout of the nerves that spring from the spinal cord below the level of the interruption.

The incidence of spinal cord injuries in Europe is around 1 to 3 per 100.000 people per year. The cause is often an external trauma (a fall or accident...) but can also be internal (tumor, infection...).

The location of the interruption will determine which nerves fail motor and/or sensory and therefore which functions are lost. The higher the paraplegia, the more nerves are interrupted, the more disabilities or discomfort the person will experience.

• Tetra - or Quadriplegia: paralysis of the neck down and partial or no longer functioning of all 4 limbs.
• Para- plegia: complete paralysis of both legs and the corresponding part of the torso.

What then?

After a period of rest (immobilisation) and the fading of the spinal shock (a reaction of the body to the major event, in which the immune system barely works), the spine must be stabilized. Attention should be mostly paid to a long-term rehabilitation, which is usually focused on different facets.

• Regaining muscle strength
• Preserve flexibility of the paralyzed limbs
• Correct posture (avoiding bedsores ...)
• Learning skills for activities of daily living (with use of aids)
• Guidance to return to live at home
• Sports (prevention of overweight, social integration...).

Patient lifts as an assistive device

It is of great importance that people with paraplegia remain independent, move around and integrate into society as much as possible. That way they can ensure that common problems such as diabetes, obesity, bedsores and social isolation are avoided. All this starts with the simple undertaking of transfers, whether or not independently with the help of patient lifts.

Handi-Move can help you choose the appropriate lifting system.

Government funding is often possible.