*हिंदी में पढ़ें: पैरालिसिस: बचाव, इलाज और देखभाल
Paralysis treatment in India has significantly improved since the introduction of innovative technologies and support programs. Today, many leading hospitals have dedicated departments to help and treat individuals affected by paralysis.
Diagnosing Paralysis
Paralysis is diagnosed through physical and neurological examinations. At Sohana Hospital, expert neurologists first review the patient’s medical history to know when they began experiencing symptoms. Then they enquire about any recent injuries and previously existing diseases. Further, advanced diagnostic tests are conducted. Some of these tests are:
| Diagnostic Test | Explanation |
| Physical examination | To evaluate muscle strength, sensation, reflexes, and overall brain function |
| X-rays | Basic imaging tests to detect fractures or bone injuries that may affect surrounding nerves |
| CT Scan, MRI | Advanced tests for finding signs of stroke, and injury to the brain or spinal cord |
| Myelogram | A test for the spine to determine spinal cord and nerve injuries. It is often done in combination with CT or MRI scan(s) |
| Electromyogram | To detect the injuries affecting the muscles along with related nerves |
| Nerve Conduction Studies | To diagnose diseases impacting the peripheral nervous system |
| Blood Tests | For detecting or ruling out any underlying disorders (any infections or autoimmune conditions) that could result in paralysis |
| Lumbar puncture or Spinal tap | A long needle is used to collect spinal fluid. This is then used to detect any inflammation, infections, and conditions like multiple sclerosis |
👉 Also Read: Signs & Symptoms of Paralysis – When to Seek Medical Help
Paralysis Treatment
Before we begin, it is important to note that as of now, paralysis does not have a permanent cure. Also, paralysis as a result of trauma, injuries, or infections can be permanent since there is irreversible damage to the brain and nerves in these cases. However, early treatment (within hours in stroke cases) can significantly improve outcomes.
For many forms of paralysis, a combination of diverse treatment approaches may be used according to the underlying condition. The main goal of paralysis treatment is to restore function in the affected body parts of the patient to allow them to be as self-reliant as possible.
👉 Also Read: What Are the Main Causes of Paralysis?
Medications
Depending on the reason behind paralysis, neurology specialists may prescribe different medicines –
- Anti-Inflammatory drugs
- Antispasticity medications
- Muscle relaxants
- Medicines for neuropathic pain
These medicines help manage symptoms, control inflammation, or treat underlying conditions. For example, for facial paralysis treatment, medications (antiviral medications, steroids) are used to decrease inflammation. Painkillers may be prescribed to reduce pain.
Physiotherapy
Physical therapy is critical for the rehabilitation of paralytic patients. Exercises, stretching, heat, and massage are used by trained therapists – to stimulate the nerves and restore the lost function. Physiotherapy may help to improve movement, flexibility, strength, and stamina in paralytic patients.
Occupational therapy
A rehabilitative therapy that aims at helping those with paralysis relearn routine activities to make daily life easier. For example, how to tie laces, drink a liquid, or button their dress.
Speech therapy
Paralysis can result in slurred speech and swallowing difficulties. In such patients, speech therapy can enhance speaking and swallowing ability.
👉 Also Read: What Causes Brain Stroke? 9 Major Risk Factors You Must Know
Mobility devices
These include wheelchairs and manual (or electric) scooters. Patients with partial leg paralysis but good strength in the upper body can be trained to use manual wheelchairs. Electric wheelchairs are for those with less strength in their arms.
Modified vehicles
If an affected individual can drive, modifications can be made to cars. E.g., levers are put in place of the accelerator and brake pedals. Changes are also made to the steering wheel.
Supportive devices
The patient is taught to walk again with braces, canes, prosthetic limbs, or walkers. The aim is to enhance movement and self-reliance.
Electrical Stimulation
Advanced techniques like TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) and FES (functional electrical stimulation) may help stimulate particular regions of the brain or muscles. These are aimed at alleviating spasticity and improving function.
Voice-activated technology
A paralytic person, who can speak, can make use of this advanced technology to operate a phone, computer, TV, fan, etc.
Surgery
In severe cases, surgical intervention may be essential to improve function or address the underlying cause of paralysis. Examples include:
- Decompression surgery for injuries of the spinal cord
- Muscle releases or tendon transfers for managing spasticity
- Nerve transfers or nerve grafts for injuries of the peripheral nerves
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy is an evolving mode of treatment that can potentially repair or regenerate damaged nerve cells, which can help improve function in paralytic individuals.
👉 Also Read: Stem Cell Therapy for Knee: Can It Delay Knee Replacement?
Psychological Support
Paralysis can adversely impact the psychological and emotional well-being of the patient. This makes it necessary for them to get counselling or join support groups so that they can better adapt to the disorder and have better mental health.
Proper Routine
Maintaining a healthy routine with doctor-advised exercises and therapies, along with proper nutrition and emotional support, can go a long way in helping a person with paralysis overcome challenges and complications. It can enable them to lead a comparatively more independent life.
👉 At Sohana Hospital, Mohali, compassionate neurologists provide highly personalised treatment using a blend of the above-mentioned strategies – designed as per individual requirements and goals of the patient.
👉 Also Read: What Are the Types of Paralysis?
Cost of Paralysis Treatment
Paralysis treatment cost varies from patient to patient depending on the type and severity of paralysis, and the body parts affected. Another factor that affects prices is the magnitude of rehabilitation the patient requires and for how long.
Paralysis Prevention
Once it strikes, paralysis is hard to cure. This underscores the need to minimise the chances of getting affected by paralysis. Here are some prevention tips:
Helmet
Wear helmets while riding a two-wheeler (for protection against head injury).
Seatbelt
Wear seatbelts while driving or travelling in a car. Safeguard children by making them sit in specially-designed car seats or booster seats.
Depth of Water
Enquire about the depth of water in a water body (whether natural or artificial) before attempting any activity (swimming or diving) there.
Alcohol & Smoking
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Also, if you smoke, give up the habit. And yes, do not drink and drive (driving in an intoxicated state raises accident risk).
Sports Injuries
Be cautious, follow guidelines, and wear proper safety gear while participating in sports.
👉 Also Read: Sports Injuries: Causes, Symptoms & Best Treatment Options
Practise Healthy Habits
Maintain a healthy lifestyle by taking a nutritious diet, exercising on a regular basis, and keeping conditions like blood pressure, diabetes, etc., in control. If you have any underlying conditions, get regular medical check-ups. If you are in good health, you should still get annual body assessments to detect any condition early.
👉 Also Read: How to Prevent Brain Stroke? Risks Factors & Prevention Strategies
Professional Help
Do not move a person with a head, neck, or spinal injury. Immediately call an ambulance.
Conclusion
Paralysis occurs when there is damage to the nervous system (brain and spinal cord) due to reasons such as vehicular accidents, stroke, cases of violence, congenital issues, etc. It may affect one or more parts of the body.
Paralysis treatment varies depending on its type and the body part(s) affected. Timely treatment is important since it can significantly enhance the life of the affected individual.
Over time, and with proper rehabilitation, many individuals with paralysis learn to adjust and lead independent, active lives. However, those with quadriplegia (loss of function in both arms and both legs) often need help from others throughout their lives, even if their minds stay active.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps reduce the risk of paralysis induced complications. Patients must stay committed to an exercise routine, as per their capabilities and advised by their doctor.
If a loved one is struggling with paralysis, and you are looking for specialised care in the tricity, get in touch with Sohana Hospital. This super-speciality hospital provides the best paralysis treatment. Our multidisciplinary team of doctors uses state-of-the-art facilities and provides compassionate care to improve the quality of life of paralytic patients.
FAQs – Paralysis
What is paralysis?
Paralysis is a condition that causes some parts of the body to lose function and/or sensation. It is typically a side effect of serious brain and spinal cord-related conditions, such as a stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, or infections, etc.
Can paralysis be prevented?
Paralysis is associated with diverse causes. You can prevent paralysis that occurs in early childhood due to polio by getting your baby vaccinated. Other than that, you can take preventive measures to safeguard yourself from injuries, infections, and systemic conditions that can result in paralysis, but not completely prevent it.
What are the causes of paralysis?
Paralysis can occur due to a variety of reasons that affect the nervous system and interfere with the brain’s ability to effectively communicate with the rest of the body. Examples include stroke, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, neurological disorders (like ALS or MS), viral infections, autoimmune disorders, and some types of lesions and tumours.