Mark Casto | April 19, 2025 | Personal Injury Lawyer Near Columbus Georgia
When someone loses movement or strength on one side of their body, they may be experiencing a condition called hemiplegia. This can be a life-changing diagnosis, especially when it results from a traumatic event like a stroke or a car accident.
Here’s what you should know about the meaning of hemiplegia, how it differs from a similar condition called hemiparesis, and what causes this form of paralysis.
Overview of Paralysis
There are many forms of paralysis with names that indicate their definition or meaning:
- Monoplegia: Affects one arm or leg
- Hemiplegia: Affects a single side of the body (e.g., right leg and right arm)
- Diplegia: Affects the same area of the body on both sides (e.g., both legs or both arms)
- Paraplegia: Affects both legs and the lower torso
- Tetraplegia or quadriplegia: Affects all four limbs
These terms have the “-plegia” suffix from a Greek word meaning “paralysis.” The prefix of each term specifies the degree of paralysis. For instance, “-hemi” means “part” or “half,” while “-tetra” and “-quad” both mean four.
You may also see degrees of paralysis that use the “-paresis” suffix. This means partial weakness or paralysis.
Hemiplegia and Hemiparesis Definition
To define hemiplegia it means full or severe paralysis on just one side of the body. It usually affects one arm or leg, but it can also affect one side of the face. People with hemiplegia usually lose the ability to move that side completely.
Hemiplegia is easily confused with a similar type of paralysis called hemiparesis.
What is hemiparesis? Like hemiplegia, it affects one side of the body. This term is used when the paralysis or loss of strength is fairly mild. Someone with hemiparesis can still move the affected body part, but the partial weakness may still affect mobility and function.
Essentially, these terms indicate the severity of the same condition.
What Causes Hemiplegia?
Hemiplegia usually results from damage to the brain or spinal cord. This damage impairs signals between the body and the brain, limiting or preventing movement and/or sensation.
The most common causes include:
- Stroke. This is the leading cause of hemiplegia and hemiparesis. A stroke cuts off blood flow to parts of the brain. This can cause damage to one side of the brain.
- Traumatic brain injuries. Car crashes, slip and falls, and other accidents that cause a blow to the head can result in brain damage and partial paralysis.
- Brain tumors. A tumor pressing on motor control areas of the brain can result in paralysis or weakness.
- Infections. Meningitis and other infections can damage the brain and lead to hemiplegia.
Hemiplegia may be caused by a sudden or acute injury, like a crash, or it can develop from an underlying condition. One of the most common conditions associated with hemiplegia and hemiparesis is cerebral palsy. Brain damage or abnormal development before or during birth can cause this condition, which affects muscle strength and movement.
Spastic cerebral palsy is a form of the condition that results in muscle stiffness and jerky movement. Spastic hemiplegia means the condition affects a single side of the body.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) may also cause hemiplegia or hemiparesis. This autoimmune disorder causes neurological symptoms when the protective coating of nerve fibers is damaged. Paralysis, weakness, and other symptoms may be temporary and worsen during flare-ups.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Hemiplegia?
Hemiplegia can affect quality of life and mobility with symptoms that include:
- Weakness or loss of movement on one side of the body
- Tight, spastic, or weak muscles
- Difficulty walking
- Balance and coordination problems
- Poor fine motor skills or loss of function in one arm
- Drooping facial muscles on one side
The symptoms can appear suddenly, especially after a stroke or traumatic injury, or develop gradually if caused by a tumor or progressive condition.
Many people with hemiplegia develop a complication called pusher syndrome. It isn’t well understood, but it’s believed to be caused by damage to a specific area of the brain that impairs perception of the body’s orientation. Someone with pusher syndrome will tend to lean or push toward the hemiplegic side of the body, even when standing upright.
Living With Hemiplegia or Hemiparesis
Life after paralysis often involves major adjustments. Physiotherapy can help patients develop strategies to compensate for balance issues and pusher syndrome. Physical therapy can improve mobility, strength, and coordination, particularly with hemiparesis. Assistive devices like braces or splints may be recommended to improve mobility.
Some people regain some function over time, while others live with long-term disability. The prognosis and treatment will depend on the cause and severity of the paralysis.
Contact the Columbus Personal Injury Lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm Today
If you were injured in an accident in Columbus, GA, and need legal help, contact our Columbus personal injury lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808
Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030
