Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in one or more muscles, resulting in the inability to move a part of the body. It occurs when there's a disruption in the signal transmission between the brain and muscles. Paralysis can be temporary or permanent, complete or partial, and can affect a small area or be widespread. Approximately 1 in 50 Americans have some form of paralysis.
The condition is commonly caused by damage to the nervous system, especially the spinal cord, often resulting from strokes or injuries. Other causes include traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune diseases, and certain infections. Depending on the type and severity, paralysis can lead to complications such as breathing difficulties, blood clots, speech and swallowing problems, and changes in bowel and bladder control. Recent research explores innovative treatments, including spinal cord stimulation and neural implants, to restore movement and sensation in paralyzed individuals. As of February 2026, a lab-grown "mini spinal cord" showed that "dancing molecules" might help heal paralysis.
