A paraplegic is someone whose lower half of the body, including the legs, is paralyzed. This is often the result of spinal chord trauma and requires the use of a wheelchair. People living with this disability have found ways to live normal lives and do things that paraplegics used to be told was impossible.
Misconceptions
People who have lost the use of their legs, whether due to an injury or degenerative disease, have not automatically lost their independence as well. It is not a foregone conclusion that they will need someone to live with them permanently or check in on them daily. Homes can be customized to be more wheelchair-friendly. Kitchen appliances can be installed lower to accommodate the height difference. Bath chairs and safety rails can be placed in the shower and throughout the bathroom. Doorways can be widened to accommodate wheelchairs. Wheelchair ramps and lifts can replace stairs, and they can make it easier to get in and out of cars. You can also have hand controls installed in cars and be able to drive by yourself. It may require learning new ways to accomplish old tasks, but being a paraplegic does not mean you have to rely on other people for everything.
Types
There are numerous ways in which someone might become a paraplegic. The most common cause is an injury to the spinal chord, such as after a serious car accident. These traumas can also occur while playing sports or even during surgery. Degenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis, commonly referred to as MS, can also lead to paraplegia. If you are diagnosed with such a condition, it's important to follow your doctor's advice and do everything you can to maintain a healthy body and combat the effects of the disease. Physical therapy and the right medications may prevent or at least delay the onset of paralysis.
Considerations
For paraplegics, the wheelchair becomes an integral part of their lives. But staying in any one position for too long, be it sitting or standing, can be uncomfortable and bad for the human body. Therefore, a wheelchair should have an adjustable seat, back and arm rests. Sitting in one position for too long or the wrong position for even a short time can cause further discomfort and damage to joints, muscles and nerves. It can also lead to pressure sores and other skin irritations on the legs and buttocks. Periodically adjusting the angle at which one sits in the wheelchair will provide more comfort and help prevent any other physical complications or trauma.
Potential
Paraplegic who love sports may fear that they will never be able to play and enjoy them again. But with the growth of wheelchair sports throughout the world, they do not have to live with that disappointment anymore. Local, national and international organizations are popping up all over the place. There is wheelchair basketball, shooting, weightlifting, and even swimming and soccer. New wheelchair designs are being configured all the time to accommodate participation in these sports. Some organizations will even help with the cost of a sports wheelchair if you cannot afford one on your own (see Resources below).
Effects
The transition into a new way of living your life could be difficult emotionally. If that is the case, it is important to talk to someone about what you are feeling. There are psychologists as well as support groups for people who have gone through or are currently dealing with the same situation. These people are a vital resource and can make the transition easier and faster, allowing you to resume your normal life and enjoy all the things you used to (see Resources below).
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