hemiparesis
Pronunciation: hem-ee-puh-REE-sis
Weakness affecting one side of the body, typically resulting from stroke or brain injury.
Full Definition
Hemiparesis refers to partial paralysis or weakness affecting one side of the body, including the arm, leg, and sometimes face on the same side. It commonly results from stroke, traumatic brain injury, brain tumors, or other lesions affecting the motor cortex or corticospinal tract. The weakness is typically more pronounced in the arm than the leg and may be accompanied by increased muscle tone (spasticity) over time. In clinical documentation, hemiparesis is distinguished from hemiplegia (complete paralysis) and is often graded using standardized scales such as the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale for muscle strength assessment.
Usage
Usage note: Specify affected side (left/right) and distinguish from complete hemiplegia.
In Context
- "The patient developed right-sided hemiparesis following the middle cerebral artery stroke." — acute stroke assessment
- "Physical therapy was initiated to address the residual left hemiparesis and improve functional mobility." — rehabilitation plan