hemiplegia

Hemiplegia, also known as unilateral paralysis, refers to motor dysfunction of one side of the upper and lower limbs, facial muscles, and the lower part of the tongue muscles. It is a common symptom of acute cerebrovascular disease. Although patients with mild hemiplegia can still move, when walking, they often present with flexion of the upper limb and extension of the lower limb, and the paralyzed lower limb draws a half-circle with each step. This distinctive walking pattern is called hemiplegic gait. Severe cases are often bedridden and lose the ability to perform daily activities. According to the degree of hemiplegia, it can be classified into mild paresis, incomplete paralysis, and complete paralysis. Mild paresis: manifested as weakened muscle strength, with muscle strength at grade 4–5, generally not affecting daily life. Incomplete hemiplegia is more severe than mild paresis, with a larger extent of involvement and muscle strength at grade 2–4. Complete paralysis: muscle strength at grade 0–1, with the paralyzed limb completely unable to move.