Paraparesis is the partial loss of movement in the legs. It can cause symptoms such as difficulty walking, muscle spasms, or balance problems.
This condition may be caused by genetic changes, spinal cord damage, or viral infections. One of the main viral causes is infection with human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1, or HTLV-1.
Treatment for paraparesis is guided by a neurologist or pediatrician. It may include physical therapy, regular physical activity, or medications to help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Main symptoms
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, hereditary spastic paraplegia mainly affects the lower limbs and can make walking progressively more difficult.
The main symptoms of paraparesis are:
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Progressive muscle weakness and stiffness
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Muscle spasms, in some cases
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Balance problems
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Urinary problems
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Erectile dysfunction
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Difficulty walking
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Back pain that may radiate to the legs
Paraparesis symptoms can worsen over time and may appear at any age, particularly when the condition is caused by genetic changes. In some people, symptoms start as early as the first year of life.
It is important to see a pediatrician or neurologist as soon as the first symptoms appear to confirm the diagnosis and start the most appropriate treatment, which can help prevent the condition from worsening.
Is paraplegia the same as paraparesis?
Although both terms refer to paralysis of the lower limbs, paraplegia and paraparesis are different.
Paraparesis is a partial inability to move the legs. Symptoms may appear at any point in life, as the condition may be inherited or caused by a virus.
In paraplegia, leg paralysis is complete, meaning the person cannot move their legs at all. It usually occurs due to spinal cord injuries.
Confirming a diagnosis
Paraparesis is evaluated based on symptoms, medical history, and a physical exam, usually by a primary care provider, pediatrician, or neurologist.
The doctor may also order tests such as an MRI of the brain and spinal cord, as well as electromyography, to check for muscle and nerve damage.
In cases of hereditary paraparesis, genetic testing may be ordered to check for gene mutations and assess the family history of the condition.
Possible causes
The main causes of paraparesis vary according to the type, which include:
1. Hereditary spastic paraparesis
Hereditary spastic paraparesis is characterized by inherited genetic changes that cause damage or progressive degeneration of nerve pathways.
Symptoms of this type of paraparesis can appear at any age, but they usually develop between ages 10 and 40. It is characterized by progressive weakness and stiffness in the legs.
2. Tropical spastic paraparesis
Tropical spastic paraparesis is caused by infection with the HTLV-1 virus. According to the World Health Organization, this condition is also known as HTLV-1-associated myelopathy. Symptoms usually develop slowly over many years and most often become noticeable between ages 40 and 50.
Treatment options
Treatment for paraparesis should be guided by a neurologist or pediatrician and aims to relieve symptoms.
The doctor may recommend medications, such as baclofen, to help relieve pain, muscle spasms, and muscle stiffness.
In cases of tropical spastic paraparesis, corticosteroids may also be recommended.
Physical therapy is also recommended to help maintain leg mobility and improve muscle strength and endurance. It can also help prevent cramps and spasms.
Does paraparesis have a cure?
Paraparesis has no cure. However, symptoms and disease progression can be managed with treatment recommended by a doctor, which can improve quality of life.