Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law | January 6, 2025 | Personal Injury

What Is Hemiplegia?

Hemiplegia is a serious medical condition that involves paralysis on one side of the body. It can severely limit your mobility, independence, and quality of life. It’s usually the result of neurological issues and requires extensive treatment. Knowing the basics of hemiplegia is important for those affected and their caregivers so it can be treated quickly and effectively.

What Causes Hemiplegia?

Hemiplegia occurs when the brain or spine has been damaged in a way that disrupts the communication between the nervous system and muscles.

Stroke

Stokes are among the most common causes. When a stroke happens, the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, and the brain cells become damaged. Depending on what part of the brain is affected, it could lead to paralysis on the opposite side of the body.

Traumatic Brain Injury

Severe head injuries caused by falls or accidents can damage the brain. This type of trauma is sometimes seen in high-impact accidents, such as sports injuries and car crashes.

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a common cause of hemiplegia in children. It happens because the brain is damaged during pregnancy, childbirth, or shortly after birth, and the baby’s muscle control and coordination are affected.

Infections and Diseases

Certain infections like meningitis or encephalitis can harm the nervous system and cause hemiplegia. Conditions like brain tumors or multiple sclerosis can lead to similar symptoms.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Although hemiplegia usually stems from brain injuries, any damage to one side of the spinal cord can cause paralysis on the same side of the body.

Symptoms of Hemiplegia

Hemiplegia manifests in different ways for everyone, depending on the severity and underlying cause. 

Common symptoms might include:

  • Partial or complete paralysis on one side of the body in the arm, leg, or face
  • Reduced ability to feel touch, temperature, or pain on the affected side
  • Trouble with motor skills during everyday activities like walking, writing, or eating
  • Tight, stiff muscles that make moving difficult
  • Issues with balance that can lead to an uneven gait or trouble standing upright
  • Cognitive or emotional issues like memory loss, confusion, or mood changes

These symptoms can vary widely in intensity and might change over time. Recognizing the signs early is important for getting the right treatment and support.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing hemiplegia involves a combination of physical examinations and advanced imaging. 

A healthcare provider usually goes over the patient’s medical history, assesses their neurological function, and orders tests like: 

These tests are done to rule out infections and other underlying conditions.

Hemiplegia isn’t always curable, but there are treatments that can improve mobility, reduce symptoms, and enhance your overall quality of life. Physical therapy is common and focuses on strengthening muscles and coordination. Therapists often use exercises, assistive devices, and techniques to restore functional independence.

Occupational therapy can help in relearning daily activities like dressing, eating, and using tools. If facial muscles and speech are affected, speech therapy can improve communication skills and swallowing difficulties.

Medications might be prescribed to manage symptoms, such as muscle relaxers for muscle stiffness, anti-inflammatories for pain, and anticonvulsants for seizures. In some cases, surgery could be necessary to relieve pressure on the brain or repair the damaged nerves. The exact type of procedure will depend on the underlying cause.

Life Beyond Hemiplegia

Hemiplegia is a life-changing condition, but with the right support and resources, you can still lead a fulfilling life. With advances in medical care and technology, most people are able to regain their independence and see the quality of their lives improve greatly.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer at Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law Today

For more information, please contact Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law to schedule a free consultation. We have five convenient locations in Florida, including Orlando, Palm Bay, Melbourne, Cocoa, and Titusville.

Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Orlando, FL Office
633 E Colonial Dr
Orlando, FL 32803
Phone: (407) 801-3000
Hours: Open 24/7
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Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Palm Bay, FL Office
4620 Lipscomb Street N.E Suite #3K
Palm Bay, FL 32905
Phone: (321) 677-5964
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Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Melbourne, FL Office
1600 W Eau Gallie Blvd #205j
Melbourne, FL 32935
Phone: (321) 450-7134
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Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Cocoa, FL Office
717 S Cocoa Blvd STE 203
Cocoa, FL 32922
(321) 449-8042
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Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Titusville, FL Office
4527 S Hopkins Ave Suite B
Titusville, FL 32780
Phone: (407) 801-3000
Hours: Open 24/7
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Find us with our GeoCoordinates:28.5584923,-80.8010051