Paraplegia and Quadriplegia
Classification | Implications for Sailing
Paraplegia is defined as paralysis of the lower limbs and part or whole of the trunk - usually a result of an injury to the back.
Quadriplegia is paralysis of all four limbs and the trunk - usually a result of an injury to the neck.
CAUSES
The major causes of spinal cord injury - motor vehicle accidents; diving accidents; falls; football accidents
The majority of accident victims are young males aged 17 to 25 years. Human factors such as risk taking and other careless or dangerous behaviour predominate in spinal accidents.
Description of impairment using international sporting classifications according to level of injury
- QUADRIPLEGICS
- CLASS 1A - Weak hand and upper arm muscles.
- CLASS 1B - Arm and wrist muscles functioning but fingers unable to grasp.
- CLASS 1C - Arm and wrist muscles functioning, fingers able to grasp but inability to spread the fingers and close them.
- PARAPLEGICS
- CLASS 2 - Impaired balance in sitting position
- CLASS 3 - Good balance in sitting position
- CLASS 4 - Thigh muscles not functioning
- CLASS 5 - Thigh muscles functioning but hip, knee and ankle muscles not functioning or not functioning optimally.
- CLASS 6 - The same as in Class 5 but functioning to a greater degree.
- Depending on the level of disability, most people with quadriplegia and paraplegia will need assistance with lifting.
- Quadriplegics unused to physical exercise will tire easily.
- These sailors may be more prone to hypothermia and heat exhaustion.
- The paralysed areas of the body are usually insensitive to heat, cold or pain and will have reduced circulation. These areas need to be protected from hard surfaces by cushioning and other protective clothing. It is important for quadriplegics and paraplegics to have their feet protected at all times.
- The sailor may experience difficulty with balance whilst sitting in a boat, depending on level of disability.
