How do you Diagnose Monoplegia?
The aim of diagnosis is to find the exact underlying cause of monoplegia in a patient, so that appropriate treatment measures can be instituted. Diagnosis of monoplegia involves the following steps:
- Medical History: A detailed medical history of the patient will be taken to gather information about any underlying diseases that may have caused the monoplegia. For example, if there is rapid onset of symptoms, it is suggestive of stroke. Therefore, the medical history will help the doctors to decide on investigations that need to be performed to clinch the diagnosis.
- Physical Examination: A thorough physical exam will be done to assess the condition and help to identify the underlying cause. For example, if there is back pain or radicular pain (pain radiating down the spinal cord), it may be due to compression of the nerves, possibly by a tumor. The physical exam will also detect any motor weakness or loss of sensation in the affected limb.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: This imaging technique involves a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (‘slices’) of internal body structures. CT scanning can be used for the diagnosis of stroke and its complications such as hemorrhage or bleeding.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This imaging technique uses a magnetic field combined with radio waves and a computer to produce very detailed and accurate images of the internal structures. MRI is the imaging modality of choice for diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke. MRI can also detect brachial neuritis caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
- Electromyography (EMG): This technique assesses muscle function. Electrical sensors are attached to the affected limb and the electrical activities of the nerves that innervate the muscles are measured. For example, conditions such as brachial plexopathy can be diagnosed by performing nerve conduction studies using EMG.
How do you Treat Monoplegia?
There is no cure for monoplegia and the success of therapy will depend on whether the paralysis is complete (permanent), partial or temporary. The following treatment strategies are recommended:
- Physiotherapy: This can be used for regaining as much muscle tone and muscle function as possible, in order to rehabilitate the patient.
- Patient Counselling / Psychotherapy: These provide psychological boost to the patients and help them cope with their disability.
- Occupational Skill Training: The patient is imparted training to develop skill sets for performing occupational tasks as smoothly as possible.
- Surgery: Surgical intervention can correct any anatomical abnormalities.
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How do you Prevent Monoplegia?
In most cases, monoplegia cannot be prevented, especially if it arises due to underlying disease conditions. However, preventive measures can be taken for conditions that can be prevented, such as stroke, spinal cord injury, nerve trauma, and nerve compression. Some of these preventive measures include the following:
- Avoid slips and falls, particularly in the elderly.
- Use a seatbelt while driving.
- Never use a mobile phone while driving.
- Never drive / operate heavy machinery under the influence of alcohol.
- Avoid contact sports like American football, boxing, soccer and rugby.
