While temporary paralysis, such as Bell’s palsy or stroke paralysis in some cases, can be reversed, there is no cure for permanent paralysis, such as that caused by a spinal cord injury.

Some people, for example, may be able to restore sensation and mobility following a stroke. However, the elderly who have suffered severe spinal cord damage may never be able to walk again.

When it is impossible to restore movement or feeling in the affected body part, medical therapy and assistive technologies can help people keep their independence and improve their quality of life.