How to Manage Quadriplegia

Quadriplegia is a disorder where an individual loses the use of all four limbs: legs and arms, as well as other parts of their body. In some cases the individual may still have partial movement in one limb or several parts of their body. This disorder is usually caused by a trauma to the spine, which affects the central nervous system. Living with and managing quadriplegia is difficult, but not impossible. Those suffering from the condition need to be prepared to make changes in their life and their home.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Work with a personal trainer or use a rehabilitation professional to learn exercises that you can do at home. You need to exercise frequently to keep your muscles from atrophying or losing any tone or flexibility. Your doctor may also give you a list of exercises that you can do at home to start out.

2. Learn to manage your weight through diet and eating healthy foods. Quadriplegics are prone to gaining weight easily, especially if they don’t workout or exercise as frequently as they should. Eating a mixture of foods like lean meats and fresh fruits or vegetables can help the person control their weight.

3. Keep an eye out for pressure sores, sometimes known as bed sores. This smaller sores develop when a person consistently sits or lays in the same position for long periods of time. The smaller sore can quickly develop into a more complex disorder, which is why it’s important to watch for any signs of the sore and get them treated early on.

4. Take specialized classes in learning how to manage the quadriplegia. Anyone with this condition will need to completely re-learn the simple things like using the bathroom or making a meal. Taking a class or a series of classes can help the individual to begin the learning process. Most doctors can recommend a teacher in the area.

5. Join a support group created for those with quadriplegia. There are thousands of people living with the condition and managing it everyday. Seeing how other people live with their disease and the changes they’ve made to their homes can be a big inspiration.

Tips & Warnings

• Don’t give up! As hard as it might seem now, it is possible to live with the disease and to manage it. While it might take you some time to adjust, you can do it.

• Watch out for any signs of depression in the quadriplegic person since these people are more likely to develop the disease than others. At any sign of depression, call a doctor and let them know of the problem.