Weakness affecting both legs is described as which term?

• A. Diplegia
• B. Quadriparesis
• C. Paraparesis
• D. Hemiparesis

Answer: (C)

When weakness is limited to both legs, the proper term is paraparesis. It means partial weakness of the lower limbs on both sides, indicating the pattern of involvement is in the legs rather than the arms or the entire body. This sits between normal strength and complete loss of movement in the legs, which would be paraplegia (not listed among the options).

For context, hemiparesis refers to weakness on one side of the body, quadriparesis to weakness in all four limbs, and diplegia typically describes bilateral involvement of symmetric limbs (often both legs, but used when the pattern involves two paired limbs and can be described in broader terms). Therefore, the description “weakness affecting both legs” best fits paraparesis.