What is the term for paralysis affecting only one limb?

Monoplegia refers specifically to the paralysis of a single limb, which can occur in either an arm or a leg. This condition often results from damage to the brain or spinal cord that affects the nerve pathways controlling that particular limb. It is important to distinguish monoplegia from other terms used to describe paralysis, as each term specifies a different pattern of motor loss.

For example, hemiplegia describes paralysis that affects one side of the body, typically resulting from a stroke or other neurological conditions. Quadriplegia refers to the paralysis of all four limbs, which often occurs due to a severe spinal cord injury. Paraplegia involves the paralysis of the lower half of the body, affecting both legs typically due to an injury at the thoracic or lumbar region of the spine. Understanding these distinctions assists in accurately assessing and coding for various neurological conditions.