hemiplegia
Pronunciation: hem-i-PLEE-jah
Complete paralysis of one side of the body, typically resulting from stroke or brain injury.
Full Definition
Hemiplegia is the complete loss of motor function on one side of the body, most commonly caused by stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other neurological conditions affecting the brain's motor cortex. The paralysis affects the arm, leg, and sometimes facial muscles on the opposite side of the brain lesion due to the crossing of neural pathways. In occupational therapy documentation, it is crucial to specify whether the hemiplegia is right-sided or left-sided, as this impacts treatment approaches and functional prognosis. Left hemiplegia may be associated with spatial neglect and other perceptual deficits, while right hemiplegia often involves language processing challenges.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify left or right hemiplegia in documentation; distinguish from hemiparesis (weakness rather than complete paralysis).
In Context
- "The client presents with left hemiplegia secondary to right middle cerebral artery stroke three months ago." — Initial evaluation report
- "Adaptive techniques for dressing with right hemiplegia include one-handed methods and clothing modifications." — Treatment intervention note