You may hear the word "paralysis" and think of an inability to move. This is true to some extent, but there are actually various degrees of paralysis, based on what's affected. A primary cause is some type of damage to the spine, which is the body's main nerve center. Issues within the brain can also interfere with the brain's ability to receive and/or send nerve impulses. Paralysis may also be related to muscle weakness (myopathy), neurological conditions (neuropathy), spinal cord injuries or diseases (acute myelopathy), or brain-related conditions such as strokes and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Here's a closer look at the most common types of paralysis. Monoplegia This type of paralysis is limited to one area of the body, such as one arm or leg. Monoplegia is sometimes temporary, such as what might happen following a stroke. Brain injuries, compressed nerves, and brain-related neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy can also cause th