Causes

Quadriplegia and paraplegia are most often caused by spinal cord injuries. But, they can also be caused by nerve diseases, such as:

• Multiple sclerosis
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease)

Most spinal cord injuries are caused by accidents (eg, car crashes, falls, sports injuries).

Whether it is paraplegia or quadriplegia, depends on:

• Location, along the spine, where the injury occurs
  • Paraplegia—damage below the neck
  • Quadraplegia—damage to the spinal cord at the base of the skull or neck

Quadriplegia

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Risk Factors

If you have any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to these conditions. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any of these:

• Jobs or sports activities that increase your chances of spinal injury—high-risk sports, such as football, rugby, wrestling, gymnastics, diving, surfing, ice hockey, downhill skiing
• Family history of certain inheritable nerve diseases