Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsTypesSymptomsCausesDiagnosisTreatmentPrognosis
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Types
Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prognosis
Quadriparesis occurs when there is weakness in all four of your limbs—both arms and both legs. Also referred to as tetraparesis, this condition differs from quadriplegia, which causes paralysis (the loss of ability to move) in each of the body’s limbs.
Here is an overview of the types, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of quadriparesis.
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Types of Quadriparesis
There are two types of quadriparesis, each with its own unique presentation. They are:
Quadriparesis Symptoms
There are several unique symptoms that may be present with quadriparesis, depending on which version of the condition you have, including:
There is a wide variety of underlying conditions that can cause an individual to develop quadriparesis, such as the following:
During this visit, your physician will typically assess your reflexes, check your muscle tone, and examine your ability to perform simple arm and leg movements.
Imaging is also commonly utilized to visualize any abnormalities in the body. This can include an X-ray, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), CT (computed tomography) scan, or bone scan.
In addition, blood draws or genetic testing may be ordered. In some cases, nerve conduction tests are also needed for assessment.
Just as the causes of quadriparesis can vary widely, treatments for the condition can also differ based on the cause. Some treatment options include:
Additionally, many people with cerebral palsy or spinal cord injuries are able to live long and active lives with the help of assistive devices.
Not all types of quadriparesis are as effectively treated, however. Unfortunately, some conditions are progressive in nature and currently lack effective treatments. Regrettably, several of the diagnoses are even deadly in the long run. Among the more serious diagnoses areALSand certain types of metabolic disorders.
A Word From Verywell
Losing the strength in your arms and legs can be extremely scary, and it can significantly impact your ability to perform daily tasks. Because of this, it is crucial to find a doctor who is skilled in evaluating your individual condition. Once a diagnosis has been made, your treatment options will be outlined and a plan can be formulated. Working hand in hand with your neurologist is the key to managing your symptoms and maintaining your independence.
5 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Galli J, Gavazzi F, De Simone M, Giliani S, Garau J, Valente M, Vairo D, Cattalini M, Mortilla M, Andreoli, Rice G, Fazzi E.Sine causa tetraparesis.Medicine. 97(52). doi: 0.1097/MD.0000000000013893Kaushik R, Kharbanda PS, Bhalla A, Rajan R, Prabhakar S.Acute flaccid paralysis in adults: our experience.J Emerg Trauma Shock. 2014;7(3):149-154. doi:10.4103/0974-2700.136847Cleveland Clinic.Cerebral palsy.American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Spinal tumors.Cleveland Clinic.Inherited metabolic disorders.
5 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Galli J, Gavazzi F, De Simone M, Giliani S, Garau J, Valente M, Vairo D, Cattalini M, Mortilla M, Andreoli, Rice G, Fazzi E.Sine causa tetraparesis.Medicine. 97(52). doi: 0.1097/MD.0000000000013893Kaushik R, Kharbanda PS, Bhalla A, Rajan R, Prabhakar S.Acute flaccid paralysis in adults: our experience.J Emerg Trauma Shock. 2014;7(3):149-154. doi:10.4103/0974-2700.136847Cleveland Clinic.Cerebral palsy.American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Spinal tumors.Cleveland Clinic.Inherited metabolic disorders.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Galli J, Gavazzi F, De Simone M, Giliani S, Garau J, Valente M, Vairo D, Cattalini M, Mortilla M, Andreoli, Rice G, Fazzi E.Sine causa tetraparesis.Medicine. 97(52). doi: 0.1097/MD.0000000000013893Kaushik R, Kharbanda PS, Bhalla A, Rajan R, Prabhakar S.Acute flaccid paralysis in adults: our experience.J Emerg Trauma Shock. 2014;7(3):149-154. doi:10.4103/0974-2700.136847Cleveland Clinic.Cerebral palsy.American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Spinal tumors.Cleveland Clinic.Inherited metabolic disorders.
Galli J, Gavazzi F, De Simone M, Giliani S, Garau J, Valente M, Vairo D, Cattalini M, Mortilla M, Andreoli, Rice G, Fazzi E.Sine causa tetraparesis.Medicine. 97(52). doi: 0.1097/MD.0000000000013893
Kaushik R, Kharbanda PS, Bhalla A, Rajan R, Prabhakar S.Acute flaccid paralysis in adults: our experience.J Emerg Trauma Shock. 2014;7(3):149-154. doi:10.4103/0974-2700.136847
Cleveland Clinic.Cerebral palsy.
American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Spinal tumors.
Cleveland Clinic.Inherited metabolic disorders.
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