Muscle function loss
Definition
Muscle function loss is when a muscle doesn't work or move as it is supposed to. The medical term for complete loss of muscle function is paralysis.
Alternative Names
Paralysis; Loss of movementConsiderations
In the United States, loss of muscle function most often results from stroke or injury such as broken neck or back. The loss of muscle function following such events can be severe and frequently is irreversible.
Paralysis can be temporary or permanent. It can affect a small area (localized) or be widespread (generalized). It may affect one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral).
If the paralysis affects the lower half of the body and both legs it is called paraplegia. It if affects all arms and legs, it is called quadriplegia.
Causes
Causes of paralysis include:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Bell's palsy
- Botulism
- Guillain-Barre syndrome
- Paralytic shellfish poisoning
- Peroneal dystrophy
- Polio
- Spinal cord injury
- Stroke
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