What is the loss of the ability to move all or part of the body called?

• A. Seizure
• B. Atrophy
• C. Paralysis
• D. Amnesia

Answer: (C)

Paralysis is the loss of the ability to move all or part of the body. It happens when the nerves or the brain/spinal cord that control movement are damaged, such as from a stroke or spinal cord injury. It can affect an entire limb, one side of the body (hemiplegia), or all four limbs (quadriplegia) depending on the location of the injury. This is different from atrophy, which is a wasting or shrinking of muscles over time; seizures, which are episodes of abnormal brain activity often with convulsions; and amnesia, which is memory loss. Understanding that paralysis specifically refers to loss of movement helps explain signs caregivers look for and the type of support and safety measures needed for the person.