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Physiotherapy vocabulary · Neurological Rehabilitation

Hemiplegia

Meaning in physiotherapy, with examples

/ˌhɛmiˈpliːdʒə/nounCommon term

In physiotherapy, hemiplegia means: Paralysis or severe weakness of one side of the body, most often caused by a stroke.

In Turkish: hemipleji, yarım felç

How it is used

Physiotherapists name the side: right or left hemiplegia. Milder weakness of one side is called hemiparesis, although the two words are sometimes used loosely. In notes, 'the affected side' and 'the hemiplegic arm' are common. With patients, say 'weakness on your left side'.

Example sentences

  1. She has a right hemiplegia following a left-sided stroke.

  2. Support the hemiplegic shoulder on a pillow when he sits.

Common collocations

  • left hemiplegia
  • right hemiplegia
  • hemiplegic shoulder
  • affected side
  • strokeDamage to part of the brain caused when its blood supply is blocked or a blood vessel bursts, often leading to weakness and problems with speech or balance.
  • spasticityIncreased stiffness and tightness in muscles caused by damage to the brain or spinal cord, which gets stronger the faster the muscle is stretched.
  • muscle toneThe natural level of tension in a resting muscle, felt as resistance when the physiotherapist moves a relaxed limb.
  • neuroplasticityThe ability of the brain and nervous system to change and form new connections in response to learning, practice or injury.

More terms: Neurological Rehabilitation

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.