Treatment of paresis. Causes, symptoms and treatment of paresis of the limbs in children and adults. Is it possible to cure paresis of the arms after an infection?

The main symptoms are weakening of the muscular systems or mobility of the limbs. Stroke is the most common cause of this progressive disease.

However, if not identified and treated promptly, it will lead to loss of full motor function of the limb. Paresis can be organic (represents a deformation of the connection between the brain and muscles) and functional (damage to the cerebral cortex). The location on the body and the severity of damage by paresis are divided into several more points, such as: tetraparesis (caused by weakening of all 4 limbs of the body), paraparesis (paresis of the legs, both arms), hemiparesis (only one half of the body is affected), monoparesis (damage to one limb).

Leg and foot paresis

With paresis of the leg, symptoms such as difficulty in flexing the hip are revealed, it is difficult to bend and straighten the lower leg due to the weakness of the nearest muscle groups with relatively sufficient strength of movement in the distal sections. Trauma to the femoral nerve usually leads to the inevitable occurrence of peripheral unilateral proximal paresis.

Mononeuropathy of the femoral nerve is expressed in a decrease in susceptibility on the outer surface of the thigh and the important anterior inner surface of the leg, limitation in mobility, extension of the leg and straightening of the hip.

Distal is usually a dangerous paresis of one leg, while the damage to the personal or other tibial muscle group makes it impossible to move the feet. If the peroneal nerve is affected, it becomes impossible to walk on the heels, abduct the foot and lift its outer edge, as well as sagging of the foot and loss of sensitivity on the back side. The result is a severe deformation of the gait, or in other words, a rooster gait.

Due to injury, damage to the tibial nerve develops. Symptomatically manifests itself in impaired plantar flexion of the foot and toes. As a consequence of this denervation of the interosseous muscles, the toes assume a claw-like position. In most cases, it is impossible to stand on your toes and the Achilles reflex disappears. Significant trophic disorders may occur. Sensitivity on the sole and in the area of the outer edge of the foot is impaired.

Damage to the sciatic nerve trunk is usually characterized by trauma, very rarely with a fracture of the femur. Severe injection neuritis results in sciatic nerve mononeuropathy. The consequence of an absolute break in the sciatic nerve is paralysis of the entire muscle mass of the leg, except for the muscles of the outer surface of the thigh, and a significant impairment of sensitivity in the posterior surface and on the surface of the entire foot.

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Arm paresis

Hand paresis is characterized by a significant decrease in the range of any movements. This can be determined with a simple handshake. In the absence of obvious reasons, acute paresis of the arm may develop. It is usually accompanied by significant pain (eg, increased pain when coughing). Peripheral paresis and its acute development occur with traumatic damage to some nerves of the hand.

Paralysis of the muscles in the distal arm is called Dejerine-Klumpke's palsy and is usually a birth injury of the brachial plexus. Symptoms such as paralysis of the hand, flexors and extensors of the fingers, as well as noticeable paralysis of the small muscles of the hand are observed. Damage to the ulnar nerve - weakness, soreness of the muscles that straighten the hand and deflect it to the ulnar side, low mobility of the fifth finger, and atrophy of the hypothenar occurs.

The hand occupies the position of a “clawed paw”, the fingers are extended in the main phalanges, and bent in the others, if dominance of the antagonists of the paralyzed muscles occurs.

With distal paresis of the arms, acute formation of a polyneuropathic syndrome occurs with a characteristic distal type of separation of motor and sensory defects.

Surgery to restore nerve conduction is necessary in case of traumatic injury to a limb. If limb paresis is the result of a stroke, then medications that improve blood circulation in the brain are required. Also, in case of paresis, do not forget about special gymnastics with massage of the limbs. When doing gymnastics, you need to perform exercises that help develop the limb with paresis.

Massage helps to avoid degenerative changes in muscle tissue; it also helps improve blood circulation in the body. It is also important for paresis to consume vitamins and minerals to maintain the general tone of the entire human body.

Paresis is formed due to partial loss of muscle mass due to serious damage to nerve fibers. Paresis is divided into functional and organic. With organic types of disease, there is a possibility of discovering the root cause of paresis, which initiates the circumstances in which nerve impulses.

Paresis of the larynx and vocal cords is said to occur when the motor activity of the laryngeal muscles decreases. This in turn leads to voice and breathing problems. This disease is closely related to serious pathological disorders of the laryngeal muscles. Manifestation of paresis of the larynx and vocal cords: weakness.

Paresis of the limbs is a serious damage to the functioning of the cerebral cortex and its important parts, which are always responsible for human motor activity. The main symptoms are weakening of the muscular systems or mobility of the limbs. Stroke itself.

Relaxation and impotence of the muscles responsible for facial expressions, or a significant impairment of the motor functions of one side of the face, as a result of nerve damage, or neuropathy - all this refers to such a dangerous disease.

The information on the site is intended for informational purposes only and does not encourage self-treatment; consultation with a doctor is required!

When does monoparesis most often occur and why?

Paresis (from the Greek “paresis” - weakening) is a movement disorder associated with a weakening of voluntary movements.

The causes of this disorder are various types of damage in the motor systems of the brain.

Paresis can be either congenital or acquired as a result of exposure to unfavorable factors on the body in the form of injuries and neuralgic disorders.

The disease is divided into several types depending on in which part of the body the paresis is localized (mono, para, tetra and hemiparesis are distinguished). This article will discuss such a subtype of movement disorders as monoparesis.

Features of movement disorders

Monoparesis is a pathology in which the motor capabilities of one limb, arm or leg are impaired.

Paralysis of this kind is most often of a central nature.

In frequent cases, such disorders are accompanied by a disease called Brown-Séquard syndrome, which is characterized by lesions in the spinal cord.

The syndrome, as a rule, occurs against the background of tumor diseases in the spinal cord, and much less often due to its injuries.

In addition, monoparesis is a common consequence of lesions of the precentral gyri, which occur due to ischemic infarctions in the anterior cerebral arteries.

When does the disorder most often occur?

Monoparesis can occur due to damage to the peripheral or central nervous system. Let's take a closer look at these violations.

The occurrence of the disease is most often associated with the fact that peripheral motor neurons are affected and their sensitivity is impaired.

With this type of paralysis, the muscles weaken significantly, and the muscles' resistance to gravity is reduced or completely absent.

Monoparesis, which is caused by lesions directly in the muscle tissues themselves, is extremely rare.

Lesions of the peripheral nervous system that may cause this syndrome include disorders such as neuropathy, radiculitopathy, and plexopathy. In this case, the muscles weaken, sensitivity decreases, and pain occurs.

The rarest are monoparesis due to lesions of motor neurons in the central nervous system. This type of paralysis, which is a consequence of disturbances in the functioning of the central nervous system, is usually caused by embolic cortical infarction. In this case, paralysis affects the arms more often than the legs.

During the first days of disease development, central paresis is not easy to distinguish from peripheral paresis. This is due to the fact that the main signs of central paresis, such as spasticity, do not appear immediately.

What diseases are characterized by monoparesis?

Paresis (paralysis), one of the many subtypes of which is monoparesis, can occur due to many reasons, primarily associated with lesions of the brain and spinal cord.

As stated above, this disorder most often accompanies diseases caused by lesions of the central or peripheral nervous system. Due to the lesions, the conduction of signals in the nerves is disrupted, which leads to the development of the disorder.

In addition, the following phenomena can serve as an impetus for the development of monoparesis in the limbs:

diseases accompanied by inflammatory processes in the brain, such as encephalitis, meningitis or myelitis;
head or spinal injuries;
brain abscesses;
the presence of tumors in the spinal cord and brain;
botulinum toxin poisoning (botulism), which causes disturbances in the functioning of the nervous system;
ingestion of large amounts of nerve paralytic or industrial toxins into the body;
disorders associated with loss of muscle strength;
hemorrhages of the spinal cord or brain;
violation of metabolic processes in muscles;
epilepsy.

Modern view of therapy

Since monoparesis is a secondary disease, that is, it occurs as a result of diseases, treatment methods should be aimed at combating the cause of paralysis. The following methods are used in the treatment process:

Drug therapy includes the use of drugs aimed at treating the underlying disease. For example, if the development of a disorder is associated with hemorrhage in the brain, then drugs are prescribed to restore blood circulation in the brain tissue.
In this case, massage sessions perform the function of passive gymnastics with a gradually increasing load on the muscles of the affected limb. These measures are aimed at restoring muscle function.
Physical therapy includes a set of exercises with passive movements. In this case, the exercises are performed both for the affected limb and for the healthy one, and the load should be the same.
For monoparesis of the arms and legs, a method of physiotherapy such as electrophoresis is effective. This allows you to restore nerve impulses and improve the condition of tissues in the affected limb.
In addition to the above, you should visit the pool, since swimming improves the condition of the muscles, which can increase the effectiveness of the treatment.
In addition, it is necessary to take complexes of vitamins and minerals.

In conclusion, it should be mentioned that paresis of the limbs is a fairly serious disorder that significantly complicates a person’s life and can lead to dangerous consequences.

To avoid complications, the disease must be treated in the early stages of its development under the supervision of competent specialists.

This section was created to take care of those who need a qualified specialist, without disturbing the usual rhythm of their own lives.

Limb paresis

Our whole life is connected with constant movements in search of a happy destiny. However, there are ailments that greatly interfere with the control of the body.

We are talking about a disease such as paresis of the limbs. This is a condition in which the legs and arms cease to serve, as they say, faithfully.

Today we will talk about paresis of the limbs, how to restore the former motor function of the legs and arms, preventing the development of paralysis.

Causes of development of limb paresis. Classification of paresis

Difficulty in the motor function of the legs and arms is usually associated with deep lesions of the spinal cord and brain, as well as the peripheral nervous system.

This pathology is caused by injuries, stroke and brain tumors, cerebrovascular accidents, and some infectious and inflammatory diseases.

Paresis of the lower and upper extremities can be deep and mild, depending on the severity of the disease, and depending on whether all four limbs are affected or only one, they are divided into tetraparesis, paraparesis and monoparesis.

There are also hemiaparesis with complete damage to the right or left half of the body.

Symptoms of limb paresis and differentiated diagnosis

When a patient goes to a medical facility, the attending physician, through clinical and laboratory tests, determines the true diagnosis of the disease in order to exclude multiple sclerosis, which also affects the cells of the spinal cord and brain.

Paresis of the upper or lower extremities can be assumed by visual examination of the patient.

So, if the legs are involved in the process, the patient with paresis has a peculiar gait: with the feet hanging down, the knees rise higher than usual, and the foot seems to “slap.”

Over time, the so-called “horse” walking appears. Whereas with multiple sclerosis, the gait is unsteady. The hands of a patient with paresis become weak and uncontrollable - he is unable to fasten buttons, write, or hold a spoon.

Not to mention more precise movements: assembling a construction set from small parts or threading a needle.

Due to impaired motor activity of half the body, the affected leg describes a semicircle, and the hand is bent like a ladle. In such cases, they jokingly say about the patient: “The hand asks, but the foot squints.”

Patients complain of acute pain, because the nerve endings, along with motor endings, also contain sensory fibers of nerve cells.

X-ray examination, tomography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electroneuromyography, which can be used to evaluate neuromuscular transmission and muscle contractility, will help the doctor clarify the diagnosis; blood analysis.

Now, having received all the necessary data, it is almost impossible to confuse paresis of the limbs with some other ailment.

Paresis of the limbs - conservative therapy

Before starting drug treatment, the doctor prepares the patient and sets him up to strengthen his firm belief in healing. In the absence of a positive attitude, it will be very difficult to mobilize the body's internal reserve forces.

Moreover, it is necessary to treat not only paresis, but also the concomitant disease (trauma, tumor, etc.) that caused its development.

If the paresis was preceded by trauma, surgery may be necessary to repair the injury and improve nerve conduction. It is extremely important not to delay treatment.

Paresis of the limbs is a progressive disease, therefore, the earlier complex treatment is carried out, the less likely there will be to develop paralysis.

To improve the process of metabolic reactions in tissues, doctors prescribe so-called “catalysts of cellular respiration,” which include cytoflavin, cytochrome C.

They improve the oxidative reaction, thereby reducing oxygen starvation of tissues. Piracetam, solcoseryl, Mexidol, Actovegin, Cerebrolysin help speed up metabolic processes.

The role of these drugs is to increase glucose utilization and stimulate oxygen consumption by brain cells.

Pharmaceutical preparations made from Siberian larch will help reduce the risk of recurrent strokes, normalize blood cholesterol levels, strengthen the walls of blood vessels and improve blood microcirculation:

» trental (take one tablet three times a day);

» capillary (4 times a day, two tablets);

» reabilar (course of treatment for thirty days, one capsule 1 r per day);

Juglanex walnut extract (drink a teaspoon three times a day) is prescribed to patients with brain damage, regardless of their location.

The duration of treatment is three weeks, 3-4 courses should be carried out per year. The drug improves blood microcirculation at all levels - arterial, venous, and most importantly - capillary, which is recognized as our second heart.

In case of paresis of the limbs, vitamins of groups A, B, E are indispensable. Essentially, they are the main assistants for the physiological life support of a person.

Vitamins can be taken in their natural form - with food, as well as in pharmacy complexes. The vitamins of these groups are found in sufficient quantities in legumes, some green vegetables, eggs and liver.

The consumption of microelements is of no small importance in the treatment of limb paresis. It is possible to replenish the supply of these substances by consuming sea cucumber extract - take a tablespoon once a day for a month or a teaspoon three times a day. In terms of the amount of microelements it contains, it is the “king”; it is not without reason that it is also called sea ginseng.

Paresis of limbs - massage, gymnastics, physiotherapy

Recovery should begin gradually, without overworking the body. Regular morning exercises are best suited for this.

If the patient is unable to sit on his own, close people should help him do simple exercises while lying down.

To do this, take his sore arm, lift it up, move it to the side, then lower it. You can also do extension, flexion and circular movements.

Massage thoroughly your upper limbs from your fingertips upwards, and do the same with your legs.

Physiotherapeutic procedures in the form of compresses with dimescid mixed with water in a 1:1 ratio will be useful. Moreover, you can add various auxiliary medicinal substances to the same solution - aloe, vitamin b12.

The advantage of dimescid is that it combines with medications and penetrates deep into the tissues, healing them as if from the inside. Compresses should be kept for 30-40 minutes, but do not allow burns. The course of treatment is 10 procedures every other day.

Traditional methods of treating limb paresis

Medicinal herbs restore strength, increasing the body's defenses. These include lemon balm, St. John's wort, fireweed (fireweed), echinacea root, etc.

Herbs have an analgesic effect, strengthen the walls of blood vessels, stimulate metabolism and strengthen the immune system.

Treatment of hand paresis with laurel oil.

How to prepare bay oil? Grind one pack of bay leaves, pour the resulting powder with a glass of unrefined sunflower oil, leave the mixture in a warm place for thirty days.

Then bring the infusion to a boil, cool, strain and begin rubbing it into the areas affected by paresis - every day for three months.

During treatment, do not spare your hands - load them with feasible work all the time: roll plasticine or metal balls, fold pyramids, fasten buttons.

Treatment of limb paresis with healing baths.

Pour 5 liters of water into 1.5 kg of pine needles (maybe with twigs and cones), put on fire and boil for half an hour, let steep for 12 hours. Filter through a couple of layers of gauze and store the broth in the refrigerator.

For one bath, the decoction consumption is 1-1.5 liters. Course – 20 baths every other day. Pine baths relieve pain and muscle spasms, strengthen the body and have a beneficial effect on blood vessels.

Thyme is a fabulous plant for paresis of limbs. Pour a tablespoon of chopped thyme herb into 200 ml of boiling water and leave for one hour.

We drink the infusion as tea every day for three months. The strained herb can be used by applying it to the limbs for two hours, wrapped in a woolen scarf or scarf.

Thyme is rich in vitamins, trace elements and minerals, it strengthens the immune and central nervous systems, relieves inflammatory processes in tendons and muscles.

P.S. Recently, a “Video course on the peculiarities of rehabilitating a patient after a stroke at home” appeared online, which is in great demand among patients. I think it will suit many people. Here is the link to the course

Be healthy, God bless you!

2 comments: Paresis of limbs

Good afternoon! Please tell me - my grandmother is 75 years old. She suffered a stroke. She has paralysis of her arms. How to treat, do massage and therapeutic exercises. We have contacted doctors, but there is no effect yet.

Hello, Marina! I sympathize with you regarding your grandmother’s illness. Treatment for the consequences of cerebral hemorrhage is very long. Patience and faith in healing are needed. I advise you to study in detail not only this article, but also the following:

3.http://narodnaiamedicina.ru/narodnye-sredstva-posle-insulta.html - this is perhaps the best article for you. It describes how one woman completely restored her husband after a stroke. Do as she does, and success is guaranteed.

4. Turn to the Lord God with the prayers that I will write to you. They helped many suffering people:

P.S. Dear site visitors! You came to this page in the hope of finding healing for yourself, for someone close to you. Perhaps you have already found the recipe you need. But before you start preparing the medicine with prayer, I recommend that you read the prayers below, which it is advisable to rewrite and also read during the entire course of treatment. I sincerely assure you, this helps! And may the Lord God help you.

PRAYER FOR HEALING.

Master Almighty, Physician of our souls and bodies, humble and exalt, punish and heal again! Visit your infirm servant (name) with your mercy, stretch out your arm, full of healing and medicine, and heal him, raise him from his bed and infirmity. Rebuke the spirit of infirmity, leave from it every ulcer, every disease, every fire and shaking, and if there is sin or lawlessness in it, weaken it, leave it, forgive for the sake of your love for mankind. To her, Lord, have mercy on Thy creation in Christ Jesus our Lord, with whom art thou blessed, and with Thy Most Holy, and Good, and Life-giving Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Prayer to Matrona of Moscow

O blessed Mother Matrono!, your soul is in heaven before the Throne of God, but your body is resting on earth, and with the grace given from above you exude various miracles. Look now with your merciful eye on us, sinners, in sorrows, illnesses and sinful temptations, our waiting days, comfort us, desperate ones, heal our fierce ailments, from God to us because of our sins, deliver us from many troubles and circumstances, pray to our Lord Jesus Christ forgive us all our sins, iniquities and falls, in whose image we have sinned from our youth even to this day and hour, and through your prayers having received grace and great mercy, we glorify in the Trinity the One God, the Father and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and ever. Amen.

Prayer “Dream of the Virgin Mary”

On Mount Gorenskaya, on the land of Pryazhenskaya, there the Mother of God had a terrible dream: my son Jesus

crucified on the Cross, a crown of thorns was placed on his head. This, Mother, is not a dream, but the truth: blood flowed from the first rib.

Whoever reads this prayer morning and evening, the Lord himself protects him - from the running beast, from the creeping reptile, from

watering tree, fuel from the fire. Three holy angels came for this soul, to be loved, revered,

guarded. Forever and ever. Amen.

I really hope that everything works out for you and that you will write about it. All the best. May God help you.

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Arm paralysis

Paralysis is a complete loss of the ability to move the upper limbs with impaired sensitivity. Partial preservation of the ability to move with a significant decrease in muscle strength is paresis. If paralysis affects both upper limbs, then this condition is referred to as paraplegia, partial bilateral loss of function is paraparesis. When there is no movement in half the body - hemiplegia, if there is no movement in all limbs - quadriplegia.

An examination under the supervision of a neurologist at the Medicine 24/7 clinic allows for a quick, correct diagnosis and early start of therapeutic procedures.

Classification of causes of arm paralysis

Paralysis of the arms most often has a peripheral origin, which is caused by damage to the nerve roots after they leave the spinal cord.

If motor impairment is associated with pathology or injury to the brain and spinal cord, then this condition is referred to as central paralysis.

Central

Central damage is caused by infectious meningitis and tick-borne encephalitis, ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.
Rarely, temporary paralysis is possible with a transient ischemic attack - a short-term disturbance of cerebral circulation during a hypertensive crisis.
Multiple sclerosis, chronic and congenital diseases of the nervous system lead to paralysis of the upper limbs, but still not as often as the lower ones.

Peripheral

Compression of the spinal cord by a herniated intervertebral disc in the cervical region is also possible, but is uncommon, but traumatic displacement of the cervical vertebrae - spondylolisthesis and osteochondrosis - can cause a temporary disorder in the form of paresis.
Most often, neurological disorders are caused by damage to the nerves of the brachial plexus or lower cervical vertebrae, usually due to trauma.
A fracture of the bones of the upper limb can lead to compression of the nerve trunk by fragments and this will manifest itself as a violation of the movements of the innervated muscle group.
After irradiation of the supraclavicular lymph nodes for breast cancer, the brachial plexus is sealed and compressed by rough scar tissue.
Deficiency of group vitamins or chronic poisoning with salts of heavy metals and alcoholism cause peripheral polyneuropathy, with dysfunction of the upper and lower extremities

An examination at the Medicine 24/7 clinic will quickly identify chronic intoxication complicated by neurological symptoms and make a differential diagnosis with other central nervous system diseases.

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Symptoms

Clinical differences between central and peripheral damage

Paralysis of central origin is manifested by spastic contraction of muscles, which leads to forced flexion in the joints, muscle tone is increased, but muscle strength is insufficient.

Paralysis due to damage to the nerve roots, on the contrary, causes lethargy of the arm, it hangs like a whip, muscle tone is reduced.

With paresis, hand movements are preserved, but it is impossible to clench the hand into a fist without applying significant effort. Often, a decrease in range of motion is accompanied by pain or painful sensations when touching the skin, numbness and “crawling sensations”. The severity of paralysis is assessed on a 5-point scale, where the maximum score corresponds to normal muscle strength, and “0” means a complete absence of active movements. And the scores are determined by the resistance force when the patient’s arm is extended.

Paralysis of the right arm alone or only the left arm may be the result of a stroke in the hemisphere opposite the arm. For a right-handed person, a fatal circulatory disorder is ischemia in the left hemisphere of the brain, and left-handed people often use both hands equally well and with this disease have an advantage in compensating for lost function.

When the nerve trunk or brachial plexus is compressed by post-radiation scars, very intense pain occurs, which is practically not relieved by analgesics.

Treatment of arm paralysis

Treatment is aimed at eliminating the root cause that caused neurological disorders and maintaining and subsequently restoring muscle strength. So, in case of injuries, the integrity of the bone is restored, releasing from compression, and, if necessary, suturing the damaged nerve trunk. For some time, it is necessary to limit the range of movements, which leads to weakening of the muscles, which, after removing the splint, will be restored by physiotherapy and exercise therapy.

For spinal tumors, radical neurosurgical intervention or palliative surgery is performed to release the spinal cord from compression.

If the nerve root is compressed by a herniated disc or dislocation of the cervical vertebrae, the hernia is removed or the position of the vertebra is corrected using traction and manual therapy.

Physiotherapy and other modern hardware methods of treatment provide good results, so in the Medicine 24/7 clinic, for this disease, electrophoresis of drugs, fluctuarization with currents of different frequencies and exposure to magnetic fields are carried out.

To maintain muscle activity, massage and physical therapy are performed, and the qualifications of a specialist play a special role in this process; at the Medicine 24/7 neurology clinic, all specialists working with neurological patients have undergone professional training in chronic neurological pathology and spinal injury.

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Paresis

The term “paresis” is more often used in relation to muscles whose strength can be objectively assessed by a doctor (muscles of the arms, legs, neck), while the term “paralysis” is applied to muscles with an immeasurable exact strength (for example, the soft palate, gaze).

Symptoms of paresis

change in gait (if there is weakness in the muscles of the pelvic girdle) - the gait becomes similar to a “duck”, waddling from foot to foot;
foot drop when lifting the leg (with weakness of the extensor muscles of the foot). At the same time, a “chasing” or “cock” gait develops, that is, with each step a person tries to raise his foot higher so as not to touch the ground with it;
hanging head forward (with weakness in the back muscles of the neck);
weakness in the muscles of the arms - in this case, it is difficult for a person to raise his arms, hold objects in his hands, or keep his arms suspended;
weakness in the leg muscles and the associated inability to walk, difficulty getting up from a sitting position.

Forms

Depending on the strength of the muscle identified during a neurological examination, five gradations of paresis are distinguished (5-point scale):
- 5 points - complete preservation of muscle strength (no paresis);
- 4 points - a slight decrease in muscle strength compared to the previously available strength;
- 3 points - a significant decrease in muscle strength compared to the previously available strength;
- 2 points - muscle contraction when it is impossible to resist the force of gravity (for example, a person can bend his arm at the elbow while lying on the table, but cannot do this if he hangs his arm down);
- 1 point - unproductive contraction of individual muscle bundles of the muscle (not leading to contraction of the entire muscle);
- 0 points - lack of muscle strength (so-called plegia, which is an extreme degree of muscle weakness and does not belong to the concept of “paresis”).
Depending on the origin of paresis, there are two forms:
- central paresis (spastic) is associated with disorders of the pyramidal tract (ensures the conduction of motor impulses) in the area from the cerebral cortex to the cells of the anterior horns of the spinal cord - motor neurons (nerve cells that provide muscle movement), combined with an increase in tone in paretic muscles;
- peripheral paresis (flaccid) is associated with damage to the nuclei of the cranial nerves (clusters of cells) or motor neurons and the nerves going from them to the muscles, combined with a decrease in tone in the paretic muscles and their thinning (atrophy).
Depending on the prevalence of decreased muscle strength in the limbs, the following forms of paresis are distinguished:
- monoparesis - in one limb;
- hemiparesis - in the limbs on one side;
- paraparesis - only in the arms or only in the legs;
- tetraparesis - in all extremities (arms and legs).

Causes

Acute disturbance of cerebral or spinal circulation (stroke), including hemorrhages in the brain or spinal cord.
Tumors of the brain and spinal cord.
Brain and spinal cord injuries.
Abscess (ulcer) of the brain and spinal cord.
Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or spinal cord (myelitis).
Demyelinating diseases accompanied by the breakdown of myelin (a protein that ensures rapid transmission of nerve impulses along fibers), for example, multiple sclerosis (a disease in which many small foci of demyelination form in the brain and cerebellum), disseminated encephalomyelitis (a disease of a presumably infectious nature in which Many foci of demyelination form in the brain and cerebellum).
Poisoning with salts of heavy metals, industrial poisons, nerve poisons, alcohol.
Immune-inflammatory diseases, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, manifested by absence of reflexes (detected by neurological examination), decreased muscle strength and breathing disorders (weakness of the respiratory muscles).
Myasthenia gravis is a disease characterized by pathological muscle fatigue, with repeated movements increasing muscle weakness, which partially or completely goes away after rest.
Botulism is a disease associated with poisoning by botulinum toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It also manifests itself as respiratory failure, slurred speech, ptosis (drooping) of the upper eyelid, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Myopathies are diseases associated with congenital or acquired metabolic disorders in muscles.
Epilepsy is a disease characterized by the presence of a so-called epileptogenic focus in the brain. It periodically spontaneously generates electrical discharge, disrupting the functioning of the brain.
Diseases of motor neurons (nerve cells that provide muscle movement): for example, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (manifested by a gradual increase in weakness in the muscles of the trunk, limbs and respiratory muscles), spinal muscular atrophy (hereditary diseases characterized by the gradual death of motor neurons).

A neurologist will help in treating the disease

Diagnostics

Analysis of complaints and medical history:
- how long ago there was a decrease in strength in any muscle group (arms, legs, neck);
- what immediately preceded the appearance of complaints (consumption of canned foods, diarrhea (diarrhea), severe headache, fever);
- did anyone in the family have similar complaints;
- whether the patient’s profession or place of residence is associated with exposure to harmful substances (heavy metal salts, organic solvents).
Neurological examination: assessment of muscle strength on a 5-point scale, search for other symptoms of neurological pathology (facial asymmetry, lack of reflexes, muscle thinning (atrophy), strabismus, swallowing disorders).
Blood test: may detect signs of inflammation in the blood (increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (red blood cells), number of white blood cells (leukocytes), increased muscle metabolic products (creatine kinase)).
Toxicological blood test: detection of signs of poisoning.
A test with proserin helps identify myasthenia gravis (a disease characterized by pathological muscle fatigue), in which the administration of this drug quickly restores muscle strength.
ENMG (electroneuromyography): the method allows you to evaluate the electrical activity of muscles, the speed of nerve impulses along nerve fibers, and conduction blocks.
EEG (electroencephalography): this method evaluates the electrical activity of different parts of the brain, which changes in various diseases.
CT (computed tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the head and spinal cord make it possible to study the structure of the brain and spinal cord layer by layer, identify violations of the structure of its tissue, and also determine the presence of ulcers, hemorrhages, tumors, and foci of decay of nervous tissue.
MRA (magnetic resonance angiography): the method allows you to evaluate the patency and integrity of the arteries in the cranial cavity, as well as detect brain tumors.
A consultation with a neurosurgeon is also possible.

Treatment of paresis

Treatment should be aimed at the cause of the paresis.
- Surgical treatment of the brain or spinal cord:
  - tumor removal;
  - removal of hemorrhage (hematoma);
  - removal of the abscess, antibacterial therapy to quickly stop the infectious process.
- Normalization of arterial (blood) pressure and drugs that improve cerebral blood flow and metabolism (angioprotectors, nootropics) for cerebrovascular disorders.
- Antibiotic therapy for infectious lesions of the brain or spinal cord.
- Administration of anti-botulinum serum for botulism (a disease associated with poisoning by botulinum toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum).
- Drugs that improve neuromuscular conduction in myasthenia gravis (a disease characterized by pathological muscle fatigue).
- Treatment of poisoning (administration of solutions, vitamins B, C, A).
Development of paretic muscles, since prolonged lack of muscle function leads to irreversible loss of their functions.

Complications and consequences

A persistent neurological defect in the form of decreased muscle strength in any muscle group (arms, legs, neck).
Violation of social and labor adaptation due to emerging neurological disorders.

Prevention of paresis

Timely treatment of infectious diseases.
Quitting bad habits (smoking, alcohol).
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle (regular walks for at least 2 hours, physical exercise, maintaining a day and night routine (night sleep for at least 8 hours)).
Compliance with the diet and diet (regular meals at least 2 times a day, inclusion in the diet of foods rich in vitamins: fruits, vegetables).
Timely consultation with a doctor if health problems arise.
Control of arterial (blood) pressure.

Sources

M. Mumenthaler - Differential diagnosis in neurology, 2010

Paul W. Brazis, Joseph K. Masdew, Jose Biller - Topical diagnosis in clinical neurology, 2009

Nikiforov A.S. – Clinical neurology, vol. 2, 2002

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Paresis (from the Greek “paresis” - weakening) is a movement disorder associated with a weakening of voluntary movements.

The causes of this disorder are various types of damage in the motor systems of the brain.

It can be either congenital or acquired as a result of exposure to unfavorable factors on the body in the form of injuries and neuralgic disorders.

The disease is divided into several types depending on what part of the body the paresis is localized in (mono, and). This article will discuss such a subtype of movement disorders as monoparesis.

Features of movement disorders

Monoparesis is a pathology in which the motor capabilities of one limb, arm or leg are impaired.

Paralysis of this kind is most often of a central nature.

In frequent cases, such disorders are accompanied by a disease called , which is characterized by lesions in the spinal cord.

The syndrome, as a rule, occurs against the background of tumor diseases in the spinal cord, and much less often due to its injuries.

In addition, monoparesis is a common consequence of lesions of the precentral gyri, which arise from a cause in the anterior cerebral arteries.

When does the disorder most often occur?

Monoparesis can occur due to damage to the peripheral or central nervous system. Let's take a closer look at these violations.

The occurrence of the disease is most often associated with the fact that peripheral motor neurons are affected and their sensitivity is impaired.

With this type of paralysis, the muscles weaken significantly, and the muscles' resistance to gravity is reduced or completely absent.

Monoparesis, which is caused by lesions directly in the muscle tissues themselves, is extremely rare.

Lesions of the peripheral nervous system that may cause this syndrome include disorders such as radiculitopathy, plexopathy. In this case, the muscles weaken, sensitivity decreases, and pain occurs.

What diseases are characterized by monoparesis?

Paresis (paralysis), one of the many subtypes of which is monoparesis, can occur due to many reasons, primarily associated with lesions of the brain and spinal cord.

In addition, the following phenomena can serve as an impetus for the development of monoparesis in the limbs:

Modern view of therapy

In conclusion, it should be mentioned that paresis of the limbs is a fairly serious disorder that significantly complicates a person’s life and can lead to dangerous consequences.

To avoid complications, the disease must be treated in the early stages of its development under the supervision of competent specialists.

Paresis of the limbs is a disorder that is expressed. The disease develops as a result of the secondary manifestation in a group of any disease or condition that is caused by a dysfunction of the brain system.

Paresis is characterized as a special case of a disease such as paralysis, which arose as a result of limitation of normal motor functions due to the innervation of a particular muscular system.

A distinctive feature of paresis from other motor function disorders is that it affects the central and peripheral nervous systems. As a result, there is a loss of motor activity.

The main causes of paresis are considered to be damage to the human nervous system pathways that are responsible for performing movements of the limbs (motor nodes of the spinal cord and brain, nerve fibers of the peripheral and central systems).

Forms of limb paresis

The main forms of paresis of the limbs can be presented in the following table, which characterizes the causes, origin, and distribution of this phenomenon.

Criterion characterizing muscle strength during a neurological examination
0 points: complete lack of muscle strength. The so-called plegia. Extreme	1 point: Ineffective contraction of some muscle groups. As a rule, it does not lead to contraction of the entire muscle.	2 points: A contraction that cannot resist gravity. Contraction occurs when a limb (arm) is, for example, on a table.	3 points: Significant decrease in normal muscle strength. The reduction is happening, but it is difficult.	4 points: No significant decrease in muscle strength. The deviation from the norm is small compared to normal muscle activity.	5 points: Absence of any violations. Standard condition.
Criterion showing the origin of paresis
Central (spastic)			Peripheral (sluggish)
There is a disruption of the pyramidal pathway from the cerebral cortex to the cells of the anterior horns of the spinal cord.			In this case, damage occurs to the nuclei of cranial cells, as well as the motor nerves that go from them to the muscles.
A criterion characterizing the distribution of loss of muscle strength in the limbs
Monoparesis – one of the limbs is affected.	Hemiparesis - located on one side.		Paraparesis – lack of movement exclusively in one group of limbs (arms or legs).		Tetraparesis – all limbs are affected at once.

Main symptoms and causes of paresis

With a neurological syndrome such as paresis, muscle weakness or further human symptoms are closely associated with the following manifestations:

Deviations in gait (weakness in the muscles of the pelvis and legs);
Foot drop when lifting the leg (weakness of the extensor muscles of the leg);
Difficulty when trying to get up from a sitting position, as well as difficulty moving your legs;
Difficulty in performing manual actions (lifting, holding).

Based on research in medical science, as well as practical activities, the following causes of paresis of the limbs have been established:

Disorders and hemorrhages in the spinal cord and brain (stroke).
Different spinal cord and brain.
Injuries occurring in the head and spinal region.
Inflammatory diseases of the cranial system (myelitis, encephalitis).
Diseases associated with disturbances in the conduction of signals in nerves, which cause damage to the myelin layer of neurons in the central or peripheral nervous system.
Purulent processes in the brain (abscess).
Poisoning caused by nerve agent and industrial poisons.
Diseases of immune-inflammatory origin, which are expressed by the absence of reflexes,
Botulism is a serious infectious disease that occurs when the nervous system is damaged. Occurs due to food poisoning containing botulinum toxin.
Myopathy is one of the types of disease in which metabolism in muscle tissue is disrupted.
Epilepsy is a disease caused by an epileptogenic source in the brain.
Motor neuron diseases (amyotrophic sclerosis, back muscle atrophy).

How is paresis diagnosed?

In order to identify a disease such as paresis, a whole range of measures is carried out, the purpose of which is to determine the causes of this phenomenon.

As a rule, a set of the following activities is carried out:

Examination and consultation with a neurologist. The situation is analyzed and symptoms are searched, and the loss of muscle strength is assessed;
Prescribing blood tests (toxicological analysis, general, biochemical).
Electroneuromyography (ENMG). This method makes it possible to assess the electrical activity of muscles and the speed of transmission of nerve impulses.
Electroencephalogram (EEG). This method assesses the activity of areas of the brain.
and CT.
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). A method in which brain tumors are detected, as well as the possible integrity and patency of the arteries in the cranial region.

Treatment of paresis

Paresis of the limbs can be characterized as a secondary disease that occurs due to the manifestation of the underlying disease. Therefore, the direction of treatment should be aimed at combating the disease that caused the paresis.

In the event that a decrease in muscle strength is caused by injuries to the limbs, it is possible. When carried out, nerve conduction is restored.

In cases where the cause of paresis is a cerebral hemorrhage, it is necessary to use drugs that increase the processes that cause blood circulation in the brain.

The lower limbs are a very important part of the human body, thanks to them people can walk, live an active life and develop. If the legs begin to hurt, then the person suffers greatly, and paresis of the limb leads to incapacity and makes the patient disabled.

Paraparesis of the lower extremities is a serious disease that requires urgent medical attention and timely treatment. Prolonged paresis of the limbs can become irreversible, then the patient will forever remain confined to a wheelchair.

Many people are interested in what paresis of the limbs is, and why it occurs. Paresis of the lower extremities is a weakness of the leg muscles, which occurs due to a disruption in the connection of tissues with the nervous system, which in turn occurs due to pathological conditions of the spine and brain. Paresis can also occur due to injury to peripheral nerves.

The disease is divided into flaccid and spastic paresis. Flaccid is more dangerous; in such a situation, the muscles not only stop working due to the lack of nerve impulses, but also constantly weaken and atrophy. With spastic paresis, increased muscle tone is observed, but the tissues do not atrophy.

Depending on the affected area, paresis is divided into the following types:

With paraparesis, symmetrical damage occurs to different parts of the body, for example, two legs or two arms.
Monoparesis is characterized by damage to one limb;
With hypereparesis, there is a disruption in one half of the body;
Tetraparesis is characterized by damage to all limbs in the human body;
Triparesis paralyzes three limbs.

Also, depending on the severity of paresis, it is divided into mild, moderate and deep.

Causes

There are several causes of diseases. If one leg is affected, then most likely the cause of the pathology is damage to the peripheral nerve, but if the functioning of both limbs is impaired, the disease is most likely associated with a disorder in the spinal cord or brain.

The following situations can provoke pathology:

Injuries to the leg, back, head;
Various tumors that, as they increase, compress the nerve;
Multiple sclerosis;
Abscess in the spine;
Spinal cord injuries: immune, infectious, toxic;
Spinal stenosis;
Blockage of the artery supplying the spine;
Avitaminosis, a lack of B vitamins and folic acid, which nourish the nerves.

Symptoms

Paresis of the muscles of the lower extremities is accompanied by the following symptoms:

Impaired skin sensitivity;
Over time, the patient cannot feel pain, hot or cold;
The patient is bothered by pain;
Spastic paraparesis is characterized by tension in the leg muscles;
In the flaccid form, muscle weakness is observed;
Knee reflexes are impaired;
The patient cannot walk normally, limps, tries to walk carefully and slowly.
In severe cases, disturbances in urination and defecation are observed.

Symptoms usually develop quite quickly, in some cases there is temporary relief, while in others the limbs become increasingly weaker. Often paresis of the limbs is accompanied by a difficult moral state; the patient does not want anything and refuses to eat.

There may also be a deterioration in the general condition, for example, weakness, nausea, dizziness, fever, problems with blood pressure. At the same time, the functioning of the immune system is disrupted, and the body becomes susceptible to infectious diseases.

In children

Paresis can also occur in childhood, in which case the disease can be congenital or acquired. Acquired childhood paresis is usually associated with birth trauma, and congenital paresis with pathology of bone marrow and brain development. In both cases, the child must undergo a course of treatment from a neurologist, otherwise he will begin to lag behind in development.

It is quite difficult to identify paresis in a child, since often there are no obvious symptoms of the pathology. As a rule, an experienced neurologist can detect the disease already at the initial examination, since the sick child has some deviations from the norm. For example, muscles may be too relaxed or tense.

Parents need to show their child to a neurologist as soon as possible if the baby takes his first steps on his toes, he is very restless, sleeps and eats poorly, and there is also a tremor of the chin. These symptoms are not always a sign of paresis, but it is necessary to undergo an examination.

Diagnostics

It is very important to diagnose the pathology promptly and correctly in order to prescribe the correct treatment. Therefore, if unpleasant symptoms appear, such as weakness in the legs, loss of sensitivity, you should immediately consult a therapist and neurologist for advice.

The doctor will examine the patient, take a medical history, perform physiological tests, and check reflexes. A qualified specialist will detect the pathology at the first appointment, and to confirm and clarify the diagnosis, prescribe tests:

Blood analysis;
Cerebrospinal fluid analysis;
Tests for deficiencies of folic acid and B vitamins.

Treatment

Spastic paraparesis and its other types should be treated under the supervision of a specialist. Treatment of the disease is complex and long-term, in most cases conservative. The doctor prescribes medications, physiotherapy, massage and therapeutic exercises.

For paresis, the following groups of medications are prescribed:

B vitamins and folic acid;
Cholinesterase inhibitors, these drugs stimulate the transmission of nerve impulses to muscles;
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are indicated for pain relief;
Antispasmodics and muscle relaxants are prescribed for muscle hypertonicity.

The psychological state of the patient also plays an important role, therefore, for anxiety and depression, a consultation with a psychologist is indicated. In addition to medications, the patient must be advised to follow a diet. It is necessary to eat a balanced diet and consume more foods that have a positive effect on nerve cells.

Physiotherapy, massage and physical therapy are prescribed from the first day of treatment. These procedures will help improve blood circulation in the tissues, thus speeding up recovery. In addition, regular muscle work will prevent muscle atrophy.

Surgical treatment is rarely prescribed; it is usually carried out to remove a hernia, tumor, hematoma, which can compress the nerve, thus disrupting the conduction of impulses and tissue sensitivity. Surgery is also indicated for severe injuries, when there is a nerve rupture and it needs to be restored.

Folk

In the complex treatment of paresis, you can use folk remedies, but you should not self-medicate as this can be dangerous. It must be remembered that traditional medicine recipes are not a panacea, but only an excellent symptomatic remedy that will help get rid of pain and other pleasant sensations, but cannot completely cure the disease.

For spastic paraparesis, taking chamomile decoction orally helps well; it soothes and has anti-inflammatory effects. You should drink the decoction every day instead of tea during meals, and also before bed.
Rosehip is very useful for restoring nerves; it should be brewed and consumed internally. For the best effect, it is recommended to brew rose hips and hawthorn fruits; to do this, place them in a thermos, pour boiling water over them and leave them overnight. In the morning you need to add a little honey to a warm drink for sweetness and drink it all day, but no more than a liter per day.
Traditional healers recommend treatment with juices; they will help strengthen the body and speed up recovery. For paresis, it is recommended to drink a cocktail of carrot, red beet and celery juice.
To relieve muscle spasm, it is recommended to rub the affected muscles with valerian tincture, but the movements should not be too active, you need to rub gently and carefully.
Contrast baths are very effective for paresis; they will improve blood circulation and muscle nutrition. For this procedure, you need to prepare two baths of water, pour hot into one, and cold into the other, and dip your feet in them alternately. The duration of the procedure should be no more than 20 minutes.

Prevention

To prevent the development of paresis of the lower extremities, it is necessary to avoid factors that can provoke it. It is very important to treat all injuries in a timely manner and do not neglect visiting a specialist. It is also recommended to lead a healthy lifestyle, eat a balanced diet and avoid vitamin deficiency.

To avoid paresis in the child, the mother should be regularly observed in the antenatal clinic, starting from 7-9 weeks, undergo ultrasound, medical examinations and take all necessary tests. It is also very important to eat right, avoid strenuous work, and protect yourself from stress.

During childbirth, the mother must listen carefully to the midwife and carry out all the actions that are recommended to her. In turn, doctors must carry out any manipulations with caution so as not to injure the newborn.

It is very important to regularly show the child to a neurologist in the first year of life. In the event of a developmental disorder, the doctor will be able to quickly identify the pathology and prescribe adequate treatment. It must be remembered that the earlier measures were taken, the more favorable the prognosis.

About paresis (video)

The main symptoms are weakening of the muscular systems or mobility of the limbs. Stroke is the most common cause of this progressive disease.

Leg and foot paresis

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Arm paresis

The hand occupies the position of a “clawed paw”, the fingers are extended in the main phalanges, and bent in the others, if dominance of the antagonists of the paralyzed muscles occurs.

With distal paresis of the arms, acute formation of a polyneuropathic syndrome occurs with a characteristic distal type of separation of motor and sensory defects.

Treatment of paresis

One of the most common neurological diseases is paresis - a partial impairment of the motor function of muscles in various parts of the body due to damage to the nerves. The disease can affect both the muscles of the arms, legs, face, and the muscles of internal organs. The disease can occur equally often in both men and women. Cases of the disease are also common in children, in whom, as a rule, the disease is congenital.

This is a disease that does not directly threaten a person’s life, but, nevertheless, can significantly complicate it, leading to loss of ability to work. In addition, if paresis is not diagnosed in time and treatment is not started, then partial loss of function can develop into complete incapacity, that is, paralysis.

Causes of paresis

Describing the causes of paresis, it should be said that this is not an independent disease, but rather a consequence of another. Since the disease can be either congenital or acquired, their causes are different. The factor leading to the congenital disease is the pathology of the development of the brain and spinal cord. In addition, the cause of the disease in children after one year can be injuries that occurred at birth. Among the causes of the acquired type of illness may be:

Organic - tumors, various injuries, vascular diseases, multiple sclerosis, stroke, metabolic disorders, various diseases of the brain and spinal cord
Infectious - tuberculosis, syphilis, meningitis, various infections
Toxic - vitamin deficiency, poisoning with alcohol, heavy metals, poisons, botulism.

Types of paresis

The following types of illness are distinguished, including paresis:

In addition, there are 4 main types of disease:

Monoparesis is a violation of the motor function of one limb, a decrease in its sensitivity. Most often it occurs due to damage to the nervous system.
Hemiaparesis is a disease of the left or right half of the body.
Paraparesis - the disease affects two symmetrical limbs
Tetraparesis - disease affecting all extremities

Symptoms of paresis

Characterizing the symptoms of paresis, one can notice that all of them, one way or another, are associated with dysfunction of the muscles and their weakness. Moreover, depending on the stage of its progression, these signs of the disease can manifest themselves with varying intensity, and at the very early stage a person may not even suspect that he has such an illness, but attribute everything to fatigue and muscle strain.

The main symptom is a progressive increase in muscle tone
Impaired reflexes, hyperreflexia when the disease is localized in the extremities
With a disease of the larynx, voice and breathing disturbances are observed
Duplication of movements by the affected limb performed by the healthy one
Muscle cramps when exposed to them

Treatment methods

It is necessary to immediately contact the clinic for diagnosis and begin treatment for paresis. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to complete paralysis, and in case of diseases of the larynx, to loss of voice. Eastern methods have long proven themselves to be effective and safe ways to treat this disease. Among the procedures that help overcome the disease and restore performance, we offer the most effective6:

Acupuncture. It has a general beneficial effect on the body: eliminates pain, promotes the return of motor functions.
Tszyu therapy. With the help of cauterization, blood supply to the affected areas of the body is improved.
Acupressure. Helps restore muscle function and strengthens them.
Manual therapy. An experienced doctor will relieve muscle and joint pain after the first session.

Treatment of Paresis at the Paramita Clinic

We carry out the main treatment of paresis, depending on the stage and causes of the disease, in accordance with a comprehensive individual approach to each patient. The main emphasis is not only on restoring motor function, but also on treating the disease that caused it. Our task is not just to cure the disease, but also to stimulate the body to fight the disease in the future.

Experience and effective techniques used by our specialists provide confidence that a disease such as paresis will be cured quickly and without consequences. An accompanying beneficial effect of treatment in our clinic will be an increase in the body’s immunity and vitality.

Chief physician of the clinic

Stages

There are 5 stages of paresis:

Motor function is preserved in full; there is a slight weakening of muscle strength.
The ability to move is significantly reduced, but the person can still lift the limb.
The joints are still able to move, but the muscles are practically no longer able to overcome the force of gravity.
There is no movement in the joints, there are subtle muscle contractions.
Complete paralysis.

Drop foot, hand, arm

Drop foot, hand, and arm are symptoms that occur in various diseases. Sometimes they have similar causes, mainly neurological pathology.

Symptoms and causes of foot, hand, and arm drop

Drop foot - this term refers to difficulty in walking, when it is difficult for a person to make a “flexio” movement, that is, raise the foot up, pull it “towards oneself.” It occurs with paresis and paralysis, hence the varying degrees of severity of the symptom: from mild difficulty to complete inability to walk.

Such patients are distinguished by a “rooster gait”, noticeable even to a non-specialist. The following symptoms complete the picture: muscle atrophy, tingling or numbness in the foot area, inability to straighten and (or) bend the leg at the ankle joint.

Foot paresis is most often a neurological pathology; muscular is much less common. Doctors call the cause of the disease damage to the tibial and peroneal nerves due to neuropathies of various origins: toxic, compression-ischemic or traumatic. Drop foot often develops due to damage to the 5th lumbar nerve root, as well as diabetic neuropathy.

A drooping hand resembles the same pathology as on the leg (drop foot). Only here the patient cannot bend his arm at the wrist joint. The doctor will have to figure out the reasons, since the disease can have both central and peripheral origin.

Weakness in wrist extension has 2 neurological causes

Central (with pathology of the middle cerebral artery).
Peripheral, when the radial nerve in the arm is damaged.

In order to distinguish between these 2 conditions, the Wartenberg test is performed. The doctor holds a stick in front of him in a horizontal position and asks the patient to take hold of it. Normally, the muscles of the hand and forearm contract. If the radial nerve is affected, then the person cannot squeeze a stick with this hand. With a central origin of the symptom, some movements in the hand are observed plus additional movements in adjacent joints (elbow).

There are also other tests to confirm the diagnosis. In addition, skin sensitivity is diagnosed. From interviewing the patient, it is important to find out whether there is numbness, how long the hand has been hanging, and whether there are any chronic ailments.

A hanging (dangling) hand is also a predominantly neurological pathology, when not only the hand, but the entire arm hangs like a whip and does not allow movement.

Most often, the cause of this unpleasant condition is plexitis - damage to the nerves (more precisely, the anterior branches of the spinal nerves). Brachial plexitis is characterized by the fact that the arm swells, droops and turns pale, but the ability to move the fingers remains. The pain is felt in the clavicular area and radiates to the arm. In this case, sensitivity may be impaired, and in some cases paralysis develops.

The cause of plexitis can be: injuries, infections (influenza, brucellosis, tonsillitis, tuberculosis), osteochondrosis. Post-vaccination plexitis occurs, it is also called infectious-allergic, and also due to compression of the nerves by bone fragments due to injuries or a growing tumor.

Treatment of foot drop, hand, arm

Treatment for all these pathological conditions is different and depends on the underlying cause of the disease. For infectious nerve lesions, the main focus is on antibiotic therapy.

In case of injuries, the anatomy of the arm (leg) is restored, fractures are treated using immobilization or even surgery.

Oncological diseases are treated using radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery.

For diabetes, endocrinologists prescribe a special diet and prescribe insulin (in tablets or injections).

In many cases, with such pathology, various physiotherapeutic methods are used.

For example, foot paresis is treated with laser therapy, electric current, and ultrasound. These methods have a beneficial effect: they relieve pain and swelling, accelerate detoxification, improve blood circulation and tissue nutrition. Massage, acupuncture, and millimeter wave therapy on bioactive points are also used.

For plexitis, physiotherapists prescribe the following methods: treatment with pulsed currents, UHF, electrophoresis with hydrocortisone, paraffin and cryotherapy, electro- and inductophoresis, laser therapy, massage.

Talking about the consequences of paresis and paralysis is always difficult. There are so many varieties of them and the reasons that lead to them. However, timely treatment and the use of the latest developments in both medication and physiotherapy can not only improve the patient’s condition, but also completely restore the function of an arm or leg.

Risk factors, for example, for injuries, include a sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise, and hence muscle weakness and frequent falls.

In many diseases, stress acts as a trigger for the onset of illness; today, diabetes and autoimmune diseases are associated with constant nervous tension.

Hence the general recommendations: watch your daily routine, eat right, do simple exercises, try not to be nervous, and get more positive emotions. These seemingly banal instructions from doctors actually help prevent many diseases.

Paresis of the limbs

Paresis of the limbs is a disorder that is expressed by a decrease in muscle strength. The disease develops as a result of the secondary manifestation in the group of any disease or condition that is caused by a dysfunction of the brain system.

Paresis is characterized as a special case of a disease such as paralysis, which arose as a result of limitation of normal motor functions due to the innervation of a particular muscular system.

A distinctive feature of paresis from other motor function disorders is that it affects the central and peripheral nervous systems. As a result, exhaustion and loss of motor activity occurs.

Forms of limb paresis

The main forms of paresis of the limbs can be presented in the following table, which characterizes the causes, origin, and distribution of this phenomenon.

As a rule, it does not lead to contraction of the entire muscle.

Contraction occurs when a limb (arm) is, for example, on a table.

The reduction is happening, but it is difficult.

The deviation from the norm is small compared to normal muscle activity.

Main symptoms and causes of paresis

With a neurological syndrome such as paresis, muscle weakness or further loss of a person’s motor abilities is closely associated with the following manifestations:

Deviations in gait (weakness in the muscles of the pelvis and legs);
Foot drop when lifting the leg (weakness of the extensor muscles of the leg);
Difficulty when trying to get up from a sitting position, as well as difficulty moving your legs;
Difficulty in performing manual actions (lifting, holding).

Based on research in medical science, as well as practical activities, the following causes of paresis of the limbs have been established:

Disorders associated with blood circulation and hemorrhages in the spinal cord and brain (stroke).
Various tumor processes of the spinal cord and brain.
Injuries occurring in the head and spinal region.
Inflammatory diseases of the cranial system (myelitis, encephalitis).
Diseases associated with disturbances in the conduction of signals in nerves, which cause damage to the myelin layer of neurons in the central or peripheral nervous system.
Purulent processes in the brain (abscess).
Poisoning caused by nerve agent and industrial poisons.
Diseases of immune-inflammatory origin, which are expressed by the absence of reflexes and loss of muscle strength.
Botulism is a serious infectious disease that occurs when the nervous system is damaged. Occurs due to food poisoning containing botulinum toxin.
Myopathy is one of the types of disease in which metabolism in muscle tissue is disrupted.
Epilepsy is a disease caused by an epileptogenic source in the brain.
Motor neuron diseases (amyotrophic sclerosis, back muscle atrophy).

How is paresis diagnosed?

As a rule, a set of the following activities is carried out:

Examination and consultation with a neurologist. The situation is analyzed and symptoms are searched, and the loss of muscle strength is assessed;
Prescribing blood tests (toxicological analysis, general, biochemical).
Electroneuromyography (ENMG). This method makes it possible to assess the electrical activity of muscles and the speed of transmission of nerve impulses.
Electroencephalogram (EEG). This method assesses the activity of areas of the brain.
MRI and CT.
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). A method in which brain tumors are detected, as well as the possible integrity and patency of the arteries in the cranial region.

Treatment of paresis

In the event that a decrease in muscle strength is caused by injuries to the limbs, surgical intervention cannot be ruled out. When carried out, nerve conduction is restored.

In cases where the cause of paresis is a cerebral hemorrhage, it is necessary to use drugs that increase the processes that cause blood circulation in the brain.

Massage procedures and special gymnastics complexes play a special role in the treatment of paresis. In this case, the patient is prescribed exercises that help develop the affected limbs.

The importance of massage is of great importance because its use improves circulatory functions and also helps in relaxing spasms of the muscular complex. Massage reduces degenerative processes that occur in muscle tissue.

The speed of movements during exercise should be slow, as rapid fatigue may occur. The number of movements averages from 3 to 5 times.

The practical use of two specialists in the field of massage therapy is also provided to ensure synchronization of the process. Couples massage can significantly reduce spasticity (impaired muscle tone) and synkinesis (involuntary muscle movements and contractions).

Distal arm paresis - Symptoms, Emergency care

Paralysis (Paresis)

The complete absence of voluntary movements is designated by the term “paralysis”; limitation of the volume and strength of voluntary movements is termed “paresis”.

Distal paresis of the arms. Symptoms Diagnosis

It is characterized by a limitation in the range of voluntary movements and their strength in the hand with relatively preserved strength and range of movements in the proximal muscle groups. The easiest way to detect distal paresis is to shake hands.

Distal arm paresis can also be central or peripheral.

Isolated central paresis of the hand is a very rare phenomenon. It is usually based on a limited infarction of the lower parts of the precentral gyrus. If the wrist extensor zone is predominantly affected, a “droopy hand” occurs, which can lead to an erroneous diagnosis of radial nerve palsy. The differential diagnosis is based on the fact that with central paresis of the extensors of the hand, subcortical syninesia is preserved: when the hand is bent into a fist, it simultaneously extends at the wrist joint.

Peripheral paresis is much more common. Acute development of peripheral distal paresis or paralysis is observed mainly with traumatic damage to the C8-U roots or the lower primary trunk of the brachial plexus (Dejerinklumpke's palsy) or with damage to individual nerves of the arm. Dejerine-Klumpke palsy is characterized by paralysis of the muscles of the distal arm, flexors and extensors of the fingers, hand and its small muscles. As a rule, there is also a violation of sensitivity. A typical variant of Dejeria-Klumpke palsy is a birth injury of the brachial plexus. The presence of a concomitant Horner's symptom indicates the involvement of the C8-El roots in the process.

Damage to the radial nerve can occur after sleep as a result of compression of the nerve in the middle part of the shoulder. This happens especially often in a state of intoxication (“paralysis of garden benches”). The most typical symptom is drooping of the hand and the inability to straighten the hand and fingers. Occasionally, sensory disturbances may be detected on the dorsum of the thumb.

Damage to the ulnar nerve. Symptoms

Damage to the ulnar nerve (incarceration in the cubital canal near the internal condyle of the humerus, trauma) is manifested by weakness of the muscles that flex the hand and abduct it to the ulnar side, flex the terminal phalanges of the fourth and fifth fingers and adduct the first finger. The mobility of the fifth finger is limited, atrophy of the interosseous muscles and hypothenar occurs.

Due to the predominance of antagonists of paralyzed muscles, the hand takes the position of a “clawed paw”, the fingers in the main phalanges are sharply extended, and in the rest are bent. There is a decrease in sensitivity on the ulnar half of the hand, on half of the fourth finger and on the fifth finger.

Damage to the median nerve at the level of the shoulder makes pronation, flexion of the hand, and the first, second and third fingers impossible. Hypotrophy of the muscles of the eminence of the thumb develops, the first finger is located next to the second finger, the hand becomes flat (“monkey’s paw”). A decrease in sensitivity is observed mainly on the palmar surface of the fingers and hand, with the exception of the fifth finger, half of the fourth (the area of innervation of the ulnar nerve). Lesions of the median nerve are often accompanied by severe trophic and vasomotor disorders. Hyperpathy and causalgia may occur.

Distal paralysis of both arms. Symptoms

Distal paresis of both arms is usually peripheral. It occurs acutely or subacutely as a component of tetraparesis caused by polyneuropathy. Acute development of polyneuropathic syndrome with a typical distal type of distribution of motor and sensory defects is observed in a wide range of infectious-allergic, dysmetabolic and toxic lesions of the peripheral nervous system. Thus, the picture of flaccid upper, predominantly distal paraparesis can arise as a component of post-vaccination, rabies or serum polyneuropathy. A few days after administration of the vaccine or serum, the temperature rises and the patient’s general condition worsens. Against this background, flaccid, predominantly distal paralysis and glove-type sensory disorders develop. In the cerebrospinal fluid, a slight increase in protein levels and a slight pleocytosis with a predominance of lymphocytes can be detected.

When does monoparesis most often occur and why?

Paresis (from the Greek “paresis” - weakening) is a movement disorder associated with a weakening of voluntary movements.

The causes of this disorder are various types of damage in the motor systems of the brain.

Paresis can be either congenital or acquired as a result of exposure to unfavorable factors on the body in the form of injuries and neuralgic disorders.

Features of movement disorders

Monoparesis is a pathology in which the motor capabilities of one limb, arm or leg are impaired.

Paralysis of this kind is most often of a central nature.

In frequent cases, such disorders are accompanied by a disease called Brown-Séquard syndrome, which is characterized by lesions in the spinal cord.

The syndrome, as a rule, occurs against the background of tumor diseases in the spinal cord, and much less often due to its injuries.

In addition, monoparesis is a common consequence of lesions of the precentral gyri, which occur due to ischemic infarctions in the anterior cerebral arteries.

When does the disorder most often occur?

Monoparesis can occur due to damage to the peripheral or central nervous system. Let's take a closer look at these violations.

The occurrence of the disease is most often associated with the fact that peripheral motor neurons are affected and their sensitivity is impaired.

With this type of paralysis, the muscles weaken significantly, and the muscles' resistance to gravity is reduced or completely absent.

Monoparesis, which is caused by lesions directly in the muscle tissues themselves, is extremely rare.

What diseases are characterized by monoparesis?

Paresis (paralysis), one of the many subtypes of which is monoparesis, can occur due to many reasons, primarily associated with lesions of the brain and spinal cord.

In addition, the following phenomena can serve as an impetus for the development of monoparesis in the limbs:

diseases accompanied by inflammatory processes in the brain, such as encephalitis, meningitis or myelitis;
head or spinal injuries;
brain abscesses;
the presence of tumors in the spinal cord and brain;
botulinum toxin poisoning (botulism), which causes disturbances in the functioning of the nervous system;
ingestion of large amounts of nerve paralytic or industrial toxins into the body;
disorders associated with loss of muscle strength;
hemorrhages of the spinal cord or brain;
violation of metabolic processes in muscles;
epilepsy.

Modern view of therapy

Drug therapy includes the use of drugs aimed at treating the underlying disease. For example, if the development of a disorder is associated with hemorrhage in the brain, then drugs are prescribed to restore blood circulation in the brain tissue.
In this case, massage sessions perform the function of passive gymnastics with a gradually increasing load on the muscles of the affected limb. These measures are aimed at restoring muscle function.
Physical therapy includes a set of exercises with passive movements. In this case, the exercises are performed both for the affected limb and for the healthy one, and the load should be the same.
For monoparesis of the arms and legs, a method of physiotherapy such as electrophoresis is effective. This allows you to restore nerve impulses and improve the condition of tissues in the affected limb.
In addition to the above, you should visit the pool, since swimming improves the condition of the muscles, which can increase the effectiveness of the treatment.
In addition, it is necessary to take complexes of vitamins and minerals.

In conclusion, it should be mentioned that paresis of the limbs is a fairly serious disorder that significantly complicates a person’s life and can lead to dangerous consequences.

To avoid complications, the disease must be treated in the early stages of its development under the supervision of competent specialists.

Paresis

Symptoms of paresis

change in gait (if there is weakness in the muscles of the pelvic girdle) - the gait becomes similar to a “duck”, waddling from foot to foot;
foot drop when lifting the leg (with weakness of the extensor muscles of the foot). At the same time, a “chasing” or “cock” gait develops, that is, with each step a person tries to raise his foot higher so as not to touch the ground with it;
hanging head forward (with weakness in the back muscles of the neck);
weakness in the muscles of the arms - in this case, it is difficult for a person to raise his arms, hold objects in his hands, or keep his arms suspended;
weakness in the leg muscles and the associated inability to walk, difficulty getting up from a sitting position.

Forms

Depending on the strength of the muscle identified during a neurological examination, five gradations of paresis are distinguished (5-point scale):
- 5 points - complete preservation of muscle strength (no paresis);
- 4 points - a slight decrease in muscle strength compared to the previously available strength;
- 3 points - a significant decrease in muscle strength compared to the previously available strength;
- 2 points - muscle contraction when it is impossible to resist the force of gravity (for example, a person can bend his arm at the elbow while lying on the table, but cannot do this if he hangs his arm down);
- 1 point - unproductive contraction of individual muscle bundles of the muscle (not leading to contraction of the entire muscle);
- 0 points - lack of muscle strength (so-called plegia, which is an extreme degree of muscle weakness and does not belong to the concept of “paresis”).
Depending on the origin of paresis, there are two forms:
- central paresis (spastic) is associated with disorders of the pyramidal tract (ensures the conduction of motor impulses) in the area from the cerebral cortex to the cells of the anterior horns of the spinal cord - motor neurons (nerve cells that provide muscle movement), combined with an increase in tone in paretic muscles;
- peripheral paresis (flaccid) is associated with damage to the nuclei of the cranial nerves (clusters of cells) or motor neurons and the nerves going from them to the muscles, combined with a decrease in tone in the paretic muscles and their thinning (atrophy).
Depending on the prevalence of decreased muscle strength in the limbs, the following forms of paresis are distinguished:
- monoparesis - in one limb;
- hemiparesis - in the limbs on one side;
- paraparesis - only in the arms or only in the legs;
- tetraparesis - in all extremities (arms and legs).

Causes

Acute disturbance of cerebral or spinal circulation (stroke), including hemorrhages in the brain or spinal cord.
Tumors of the brain and spinal cord.
Brain and spinal cord injuries.
Abscess (ulcer) of the brain and spinal cord.
Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or spinal cord (myelitis).
Demyelinating diseases accompanied by the breakdown of myelin (a protein that ensures rapid transmission of nerve impulses along fibers), for example, multiple sclerosis (a disease in which many small foci of demyelination form in the brain and cerebellum), disseminated encephalomyelitis (a disease of a presumably infectious nature in which Many foci of demyelination form in the brain and cerebellum).
Poisoning with salts of heavy metals, industrial poisons, nerve poisons, alcohol.
Immune-inflammatory diseases, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, manifested by absence of reflexes (detected by neurological examination), decreased muscle strength and breathing disorders (weakness of the respiratory muscles).
Myasthenia gravis is a disease characterized by pathological muscle fatigue, with repeated movements increasing muscle weakness, which partially or completely goes away after rest.
Botulism is a disease associated with poisoning by botulinum toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It also manifests itself as respiratory failure, slurred speech, ptosis (drooping) of the upper eyelid, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Myopathies are diseases associated with congenital or acquired metabolic disorders in muscles.
Epilepsy is a disease characterized by the presence of a so-called epileptogenic focus in the brain. It periodically spontaneously generates electrical discharge, disrupting the functioning of the brain.
Diseases of motor neurons (nerve cells that provide muscle movement): for example, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (manifested by a gradual increase in weakness in the muscles of the trunk, limbs and respiratory muscles), spinal muscular atrophy (hereditary diseases characterized by the gradual death of motor neurons).

A neurologist will help in treating the disease

Diagnostics

Analysis of complaints and medical history:
- how long ago there was a decrease in strength in any muscle group (arms, legs, neck);
- what immediately preceded the appearance of complaints (consumption of canned foods, diarrhea (diarrhea), severe headache, fever);
- did anyone in the family have similar complaints;
- whether the patient’s profession or place of residence is associated with exposure to harmful substances (heavy metal salts, organic solvents).
Neurological examination: assessment of muscle strength on a 5-point scale, search for other symptoms of neurological pathology (facial asymmetry, lack of reflexes, muscle thinning (atrophy), strabismus, swallowing disorders).
Blood test: may detect signs of inflammation in the blood (increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (red blood cells), number of white blood cells (leukocytes), increased muscle metabolic products (creatine kinase)).
Toxicological blood test: detection of signs of poisoning.
A test with proserin helps identify myasthenia gravis (a disease characterized by pathological muscle fatigue), in which the administration of this drug quickly restores muscle strength.
ENMG (electroneuromyography): the method allows you to evaluate the electrical activity of muscles, the speed of nerve impulses along nerve fibers, and conduction blocks.
EEG (electroencephalography): this method evaluates the electrical activity of different parts of the brain, which changes in various diseases.
CT (computed tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the head and spinal cord make it possible to study the structure of the brain and spinal cord layer by layer, identify violations of the structure of its tissue, and also determine the presence of ulcers, hemorrhages, tumors, and foci of decay of nervous tissue.
MRA (magnetic resonance angiography): the method allows you to evaluate the patency and integrity of the arteries in the cranial cavity, as well as detect brain tumors.
A consultation with a neurosurgeon is also possible.

Treatment of paresis

Treatment should be aimed at the cause of the paresis.
- Surgical treatment of the brain or spinal cord:
  - tumor removal;
  - removal of hemorrhage (hematoma);
  - removal of the abscess, antibacterial therapy to quickly stop the infectious process.
- Normalization of arterial (blood) pressure and drugs that improve cerebral blood flow and metabolism (angioprotectors, nootropics) for cerebrovascular disorders.
- Antibiotic therapy for infectious lesions of the brain or spinal cord.
- Administration of anti-botulinum serum for botulism (a disease associated with poisoning by botulinum toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum).
- Drugs that improve neuromuscular conduction in myasthenia gravis (a disease characterized by pathological muscle fatigue).
- Treatment of poisoning (administration of solutions, vitamins B, C, A).
Development of paretic muscles, since prolonged lack of muscle function leads to irreversible loss of their functions.

Complications and consequences

A persistent neurological defect in the form of decreased muscle strength in any muscle group (arms, legs, neck).
Violation of social and labor adaptation due to emerging neurological disorders.

Prevention of paresis

Timely treatment of infectious diseases.
Quitting bad habits (smoking, alcohol).
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle (regular walks for at least 2 hours, physical exercise, maintaining a day and night routine (night sleep for at least 8 hours)).
Compliance with the diet and diet (regular meals at least 2 times a day, inclusion in the diet of foods rich in vitamins: fruits, vegetables).
Timely consultation with a doctor if health problems arise.
Control of arterial (blood) pressure.

Sources

M. Mumenthaler - Differential diagnosis in neurology, 2010

Paul W. Brazis, Joseph K. Masdew, Jose Biller - Topical diagnosis in clinical neurology, 2009

Nikiforov A.S. – Clinical neurology, vol. 2, 2002

Arm paralysis

What is arm paralysis? This term is correct to describe the complete absence of motor function of the upper limb.

If movements in the hand are present, but they are limited in amplitude and strength, then we should talk about incomplete paralysis, or paresis.

ICD-10 code

Epidemiology

The epidemiology of the disease is as follows: 1.5 cases per 1000 newborns (data for Russia as of 2000). Both boys and girls are susceptible to pathology. Right-sided obstetric palsy is most common.

Causes of arm paralysis

Both paralysis and paresis most often arise as a result of disorders in the functioning of the nervous system, specifically the active centers that are responsible for voluntary movements, as well as the conductive channels of the central and peripheral nervous system.

Risk factors

The main risk factors that lead to such disorders may be the following:

traumatic injuries, traumatic brain injuries;
serious metabolic disorders;
infectious damage to the central nervous system (inflammation of the meninges, poliomyelitis, tuberculosis, etc.);
exposure to toxic substances (for example, lead intoxication);
malignant brain lesions;
trophic disorders;
hereditary weakness of the nervous system;
congenital innervation disorders.

Symptoms of arm paralysis

The first signs of incipient arm paralysis are a limitation in the amplitude of voluntary movement and the appearance of weakness. Weakness in the limb originates from the wrist, gradually spreading to the proximal muscles. The simplest way to determine increasing paresis is to shake hands.

Paralysis of the left arm is a common phenomenon that accompanies cerebrovascular disease, cerebral atherosclerosis, and hypertension. In this case, paralysis of the upper limb can occur simultaneously with damage to the lower limb, as well as with paresis of the hypoglossal and facial nerve.
Paralysis of the right arm can be a consequence of a dislocation of the shoulder joint, damage to the plexus of the shoulder. The patient loses the ability to move the limb to the side and lift it. Movement in the elbow joint is extremely limited or absent altogether.
Paralysis of the fingers occurs when the nerve in the middle part of the shoulder is damaged. The most common manifestation of finger paralysis is weakness of the hand and lack of motor activity in the phalanges. In some cases, there is a change in the sensitivity of the back of the thumb.
Partial arm paralysis is a condition where the strength and range of motion in the joints is relatively preserved. To determine partial paralysis, the Barre test is used: the patient is asked to extend his arms in front of him and hold them this way for as long as possible. If paresis or partial paralysis is present, the limbs immediately drop.
Obstetric arm paralysis is the immobilization of the upper limb in a newly born child. This condition is usually caused by damage to the shoulder or nerve endings during labor.

Stages

Birth paralysis has four stages of development:

acute stage (during the neonatal period);
early recovery stage (up to one year of age);
late recovery stage (up to 3 years of age);
residual stage (after 3 years).

Obstetric paralysis is accompanied by a passive position of the affected arm. Cervical symptoms are also present, indicating damage to the cervical vertebrae and spinal cord.

Forms

Paralysis can be central (spastic) or peripheral (flaccid).

The central form of paralysis occurs due to a malfunction of the motor central nerve cells. With this type of paralysis, deep reflexes intensify, hypertonicity occurs and those reflexes appear that should not normally exist (for example, the Babinsky reflex, Rossolimo, etc.).

The flaccid form of paralysis is a consequence of damage to peripheral motor nerve cells. This paralysis is characterized by a decrease or loss of reflexes, hypotonicity, and atrophy. Sometimes the condition is aggravated by muscle twitching.

Paralysis in most cases occurs due to severe damage to parts of the nervous system. Only sometimes the disease is associated with functional problems. Most often, this is the result of damage to certain areas responsible for movement, which leads to the appearance of:

monoparalysis or monoparesis (paralysis of one arm);
paraparalysis or paraparesis (damage to both hands);
hemiplegia (damages to the arms and legs on the left or right);
triplegia (damage to three limbs);
tetraplegia (affects all arms and legs).

In this case, paralysis can affect the entire limb, or only its distal or proximal part.

Complications and consequences

Arm paralysis is only one of the symptoms or consequences of any underlying disease, so the development of complications and prognosis depends on how correctly the diagnosis is made and treatment prescribed.

Diagnosis of arm paralysis

Diagnosis of arm paralysis is based on the patient's history and examination. With complete paralysis, the upper limb hangs down freely, the elbow joint is extended, and the fingers are bent. There is no motor activity.

In addition, the doctor may prescribe certain tests:

general blood analysis;
blood chemistry;
general urine analysis;
cerebrospinal fluid examination.

Instrumental diagnostics may include:

EMG – electromyography – a technique for studying the bioelectric potentials of the neuromuscular system;
computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging;
study of the innervation of peripheral nerve fibers.

Differential diagnosis

Differential diagnosis is carried out taking into account the types of polyneuritis and polymyositis, which can also manifest themselves as symptoms of paresis and paralysis.

Who to contact?

Treatment of arm paralysis

Complex therapy for arm paralysis should include:

drug treatment;
physiotherapy;
massage treatments;
drug blockades.

The selection of the treatment method is carried out individually, taking into account the underlying disease that caused the paralysis.

Drug treatment primarily includes the prescription of muscle relaxants, as well as medications that improve cerebral circulation.

Directions for use and doses

Prescribed according to an individual regimen from ½ to 2 tablets three times a day with meals.

Prescribe from 2 to 4 mg three times a day.

Fatigue, dizziness, thirst, low blood pressure, nausea.

Do not use simultaneously with Fluvoxamine and Ciprofloxacin.

The average daily dosage is 5 mg. The course of treatment is 1 month.

Fatigue, drowsiness, headache, weakness.

The course of treatment is completed gradually to avoid withdrawal syndrome.

The average daily dosage is 25 mg. The maximum daily dosage is 400 mg.

Depressive states, headache, dyspepsia, appetite disturbances.

Not prescribed for children under 5 years of age.

Usually prescribed 1 tablet three times a day.

Drowsiness, headache, thirst, sweating, increased fatigue.

The drug contains lactose.

Prescribe 1 tablet (25 mg) three times a day.

Dyspepsia, headache, dry mouth.

For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, it is recommended to take the drug immediately after meals.

Vitamin therapy is the second important component of successful treatment of paralysis. Scientists have proven that a lack of certain vitamins and microelements in the body can disrupt the functioning of the nervous system. So, when choosing multivitamin preparations, you should pay attention to the presence of the following vitamins:

retinol (vit. A) – helps in the formation of new cellular structures;
vitamins gr. B – normalize the functioning of nerve cells, improve blood circulation in the brain;
ascorbic acid (vit. C) – strengthens and restores vascular walls, including in the brain;
vitamin D – maintains an optimal blood picture;
vitamin K – improves metabolic processes and blood circulation;
tocopherol (vit. E) – antioxidant, supports the functioning of the immune system.

Physiotherapeutic treatment involves the use of thermal procedures and methods of stimulation of peripheral nerves:

paraffin and ozokerite applications;
electrical stimulation (“Myoton” device).

Additionally, it is recommended to use massage and manual therapy, which will allow you to relax the muscles constrained by spasms as much as possible. During a massage session, it is important to avoid painful and rough techniques that can increase muscle tone.

Traditional treatment for arm paralysis includes many methods. The recipes presented below can be used both to alleviate the patient’s condition and to prevent paralysis in general.

Take 25 fresh pine cones, pour 1 liter of vodka over them and leave for 3 weeks. Filter the finished medicine and take 1 tsp. three times a day half an hour before meals.
Prepare an infusion of peony rhizomes: 1 tsp. steam the raw materials in 250 ml of boiling water. After an hour, filter the medicine and drink 1 tbsp. l. three times a day a few minutes before meals.
Make a mixture of 20 g lemon balm, 20 g thyme, 10 g each of thyme, mint, motherwort and mistletoe. Pour 1 tbsp. l. raw materials 250 ml of boiling water, leave for an hour, filter. Drink 100 ml twice a day between meals.
Grind fresh dates into a puree. Take a full tablespoon three times a day, with milk. The course of therapy is 1 month.
Steam the elderberries, grind them into puree and make a compress on the affected limb. Repeat the procedure twice a day.

Herbal treatment involves the use of infusions or alcohol tinctures. Herbal teas can be prepared using various combinations of herbs, mixtures, often using arbitrary proportions. For arm paralysis, it is recommended to use the following plants and their combinations:

sage – has an anti-inflammatory effect, stimulates the immune system, activates blood circulation;
valerian – calms, improves the functioning of the nervous system, relaxes and eliminates spasms;
thyme – eliminates neuralgia and neurosis, relieves inflammation and normalizes sleep;
motherwort – normalizes blood pressure, calms the nervous system, stabilizes cardiac activity.

Homeopathy can be of particular benefit for arm paralysis - this is a relatively new type of treatment that involves the use of drugs exclusively on a natural basis. Such homeopathic preparations are easily tolerated by patients, have minimal side effects and are considered very effective.