Paraparesis

Paraparesis

Paraparesis is a weakness of the lower limbs, short of complete weakness (paraplegia, q.v.). This may result from lesions anywhere from cerebral cortex (frontal, parasagittal lesions) to peripheral nerves, producing either an upper motor neurone (spastic) or lower motor neurone (flaccid) picture. A spinal cord lesion (myelopathy) is probably the most common cause. Paraparesis may be symmetrical or asymmetrical.

Cross References

Flaccidity; Myelopathy; Paraplegia; Spasticity