Paraplegia is defined as which of the following?

• A. Paralysis of all four limbs
• B. Paralysis and loss of sensation in the legs
• C. Paralysis only in the arms
• D. Loss of bladder control

Answer: (B)

Paraplegia means loss of motor function and sensation in the legs due to damage to the spinal cord below the neck. The defining feature is paralysis with reduced or absent sensation in the legs, while the arms are typically unaffected. This distinguishes it from conditions that involve all four limbs, like quadriplegia. Bladder or bowel issues can occur with spinal cord injuries, but they aren’t what defines paraplegia. So paralysis and loss of sensation in the legs best capture the core idea.