Which term describes loss of movement in all four limbs?

• A. Paraplegia
• B. Quadriplegia
• C. Hemiplegia
• D. Diplegia

Answer: (B)

Quadriplegia is paralysis of all four limbs. The term breaks down into quad- meaning four and -plegia meaning paralysis, signaling involvement of both arms and both legs. This distinguishes it from paraplegia, which is paralysis of the legs only; hemiplegia, which affects one side of the body (both arm and leg on that side); and diplegia, where two limbs in one region (often both legs) are more affected than the others. Quadriplegia commonly results from injury to the cervical spinal cord or widespread neural damage that impacts all four limbs. A closely related term is tetraplegia, used interchangeably in many contexts.