Total loss of movement and sensation below the level of a spinal injury.
For paraplegia, medical records and examination findings that document loss of use of both feet are central. This includes clinical notes confirming the absence of functional movement and control in both lower limbs, imaging or surgical records showing the spinal injury, and neurological exam findings such as absent motor function below the level of injury. For quadriplegia, you also need records establishing loss of use of both hands, such as neurological exams showing absent motor function in both upper limbs. Statements from you or people who know you describing your inability to use your hands or feet in daily activities, such as walking, gripping, or self-care, can help show the extent of the functional loss. Records from rehabilitation, physical therapy, or long-term care can also reflect the degree to which both upper and lower limbs are non-functional.
Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.
