What is Locked-in Syndrome?
Locked-in syndrome is a rare neurological disorder characterized by complete paralysis of voluntary muscles in all parts of the body except for those that control eye movement. It may result from traumatic brain injury, diseases of the circulatory system, diseases that destroy the myelin sheath surrounding nerve cells, or medication overdose. Individuals with locked-in syndrome are conscious and can think and reason, but are unable to speak or move. The disorder leaves individuals completely mute and paralyzed. Communication may be possible with blinking eye movements.
Is there any treatment?
There is no cure for locked-in syndrome, nor is there a standard course of treatment. A therapy called functional neuromuscular stimulation, which uses electrodes to stimulate muscle reflexes, may help activate some paralyzed muscles. Several devices to help communication are available. Other treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
What is the prognosis?
While in rare cases some patients may regain certain functions, the chances for motor recovery are very limited.
What research is being done?
The NINDS supports research on neurological disorders that can cause locked-in syndrome. The goals of this research are to find ways to prevent, treat, and cure these disorders.
Organizations
National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC)
4200 Forbes Boulevard, Suite 202
Lanham, MD 20706-4829
naricinfo@heitechservices.com
www.naric.com
Tel: 301.459.5900 or 301.459.5984
TTY: toll-free 800.346.2742
Fax: 301.562.2401
National Stroke Association
9707 East Easter Lane, Suite B
Centennial, CO 80112-3747
info@stroke.org
www.stroke.org
Tel: 303.649.9299 or toll-free 800.STROKES (787.6537)
Fax: 303.649.1328
National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR)
U.S. Department of Education Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services
400 Maryland Ave., S.W.
Washington, DC 20202-7100
www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/nidrr
Tel: 202.245.7460 or 202.245.7316 (TTY)
Source: National Institutes of Health; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 2/13/2007...#6071
