quadriplegia

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noun

quad·​ri·​ple·​gia ˌkwäd-rə-ˈplē-j(ē-)ə 

: partial or complete paralysis of both the arms and legs that is usually due to injury or disease of the spinal cord in the region of the neck

called also tetraplegia

quadriplegic

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adjective

quad·​ri·​ple·​gic ˌkwäd-rə-ˈplē-jik 

: of, relating to, or affected with quadriplegia

quadriplegic patients

quadriplegic

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noun

: one affected with quadriplegia

called also tetraplegic

Did you know?

Quadriplegia is the result of injury or illness, almost always affecting the spine. Though a paraplegic has lost the use only of his or her legs, quadriplegics are paralyzed in all four limbs. Today voice-activated wheelchairs help the quadriplegic get around, and houses can be equipped with similar systems to operate lights and appliances; monkeys have even been trained to assist quadriplegics with everyday tasks. The work of the quadriplegic actor Christopher Reeve has led to remarkable advances in developing new nerve connections, enabling some determined paraplegics and quadriplegics to walk again.