what is paresis

Paresis is a medical condition characterized by the weakening of a muscle or group of muscles. It is also known as partial or mild paralysis, but unlike paralysis, individuals with paresis still have some control over the affected muscles. Paresis occurs due to nerve damage, which can be caused by a variety of factors or conditions such as injury, stroke, spinal cord inflammation, and conditions like MS. Paresis can affect any part of the body, including the limbs, eyes, stomach, and vocal cords. Neurologists use the term paresis to describe weakness, and plegia to describe paralysis in which all voluntary movement is lost. There is currently no cure for paresis, but some types of paresis are temporary and will go away over time, while others may be permanent. Treatments that focus on the underlying cause can help improve or completely resolve paresis.