Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers | March 14, 2025 | Brain Injury
Hemiplegia is a neurological condition that results in paralysis of one side of the body. When there is damage to the brain or the spinal cord, it can impact the face, arm, and leg on one side. Depending on the underlying cause and the efficacy of the treatment, this condition could be temporary or permanent.
Causes Of Hemiplegia
Hemiplegia is often associated with conditions that affect the brain or the central nervous system (CNS).
Some of the primary causes include:
- Stroke: Strokes occur when the blood supply to the brain is impacted, causing brain cell damage
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): A severe head injury can damage regions of the brain that are responsible for movement and coordination
- Spinal Cord Injuries: When there is significant damage to the spinal cord, it can result in paralysis on one side of the body
- Cerebral Palsy: A condition that impacts both movement and muscle tone and is often due to brain damage either before or during birth
- Brain Tumors: When growths develop in or on the brain, they can compress or damage motor pathways
- Infections and Neurological Disorders: Encephalitis, multiple sclerosis (MS), and meningitis, among other conditions, can contribute to hemiplegia
Diagnosis of the specific cause is the first step in addressing hemiplegia and the impacts it can have on an individual’s life.
Symptoms Of Hemiplegia
The extent of nerve damage will impact the severity of hemiplegia symptoms.
Some of the more common symptoms include:
- Complete or partial loss of movement on one side of the body
- Muscle weakness and stiffness
- Difficulty coordinating and balancing movements
- Trouble speaking or swallowing
- Spasticity or uncontrolled muscle contractions
- Numbness or lack of sensation on the affected side
Brain injuries may heal slowly, so recognizing these symptoms can be important to help the individual receive an early diagnosis and intervention.
Treatment and Rehabilitation
Treatment for hemiplegia often focuses on improving mobility, muscle strength, and quality of life.
The common types of treatment that are utilized include:
- Physical therapy to help regain muscle strength and coordination
- Occupational therapy for relearning daily living skills and any necessary adaptations to improve independence
- Speech therapy to assist with any issues arising with communication or swallowing difficulties if facial muscles are affected
- Medications like muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage any pain or other symptoms
- Assistive devices like braces, canes, or wheelchairs to help provide support and mobility assistance
- Surgery, in some cases, may be necessary to relieve pressure on the brain or correct physical deformities
A comprehensive and individualized treatment plan helps with addressing the diverse needs of those who have been diagnosed with hemiplegia.
Living With Hemiplegia
Living with hemiplegia can be challenging, but individuals can improve their independence with the right support in place. Using adaptive tools, engaging in rehabilitation and exercises at home, and modifying their environment for accessibility are just some of the strategies that can help.
Additionally, it’s important to make sure to seek out a support system to cope with the lifestyle changes involved with hemiplegia.
Hemiplegia In Children and Adolescents
Unfortunately, the rate of brain injuries among children has been rising. Children and teenagers often require specialized care to help support their growth and development. Early intervention, especially in cases with very young children, can help increase their chances of better mobility and independence.
Some considerations for children with hemiplegia include:
- Pediatric Rehabilitation: Specialized therapy that is tailored to a child’s developmental needs
- Educational Support: Collaboration with a school and therapists to provide accommodations and learning aids
- Parental Guidance: Support for parents and other family members to help enhance their child’s quality of life
Early and ongoing support for children and adolescents with hemiplegia can help them in reaching their full potential.
Get the Help You Need if You’re Dealing With Hemiplegia
While hemiplegia is a serious condition that impacts day-to-day life, medical interventions and therapy, as well as lifestyle interventions, can drastically improve patients’ quality of life. If you or your loved one is experiencing symptoms of hemiplegia due to negligence, professional medical guidance and legal support can be life-changing.
Contact the New York City Brain Injury Law Firm of Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Manhattan, NY, and need legal help, contact our brain injury lawyers at Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We also serve in Brooklyn and the Bronx.
Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers – New York City Office
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New York, NY 10005
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Bronx, NY 10461
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32 Court St #704
Brooklyn, NY 11201
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