What is Hemiplegia?

James D. Payer | December 17, 2024 | Brain Injury

Hemiplegia is a neurological condition or injury characterized by paralysis on one side of the body. It is often the result of a brain or spinal cord injury, which could be sustained in an accident. If you or a loved one are experiencing hemiplegia after an accident in Orlando, a personal injury lawyer can evaluate whether you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

What Causes Hemiplegia?

Hemiplegia often presents as one-sided paralysis. 

Some of the most common causes include the following:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs):  A severe blow to the head from a car accident, fall, or assault can damage the brain’s motor centers and cause hemiplegia.
• Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can disrupt signals between the brain and the body and cause paralysis on one side.

Some of the most common accidents that can lead to brain or spinal cord injuries and hemiplegia include:

• Auto accidents: High-speed collisions or crashes involving cars, trucks, or other vehicles can cause severe head trauma.
• Slip and fall accidents: Slip and fall accidents on wet floors or loose stairs can cause traumatic brain injuries.
• Workplace accidents: Construction site accidents involving falls or being struck with machinery can cause head or spinal injuries.
• Bicycle or motorcycle accidents: Riders are vulnerable to direct impacts to the head, neck, and back in bicycle or motorcycle accidents, which increases the risk of brain and spinal cord injuries.
• Assaults: Blunt-force trauma to the head or spine during physical assaults can result in severe neurological damage.

An Orlando personal injury lawyer can investigate whether your hemiplegia may be connected to injuries sustained in an accident.

What Are Common Symptoms of Hemiplegia?

The symptoms of hemiplegia can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the part of the brain or spinal cord affected. 

Common symptoms include:

• Paralysis: Complete or partial loss of movement on one side of the body.
• Muscle stiffness: Muscles are tight and difficult to move.
•  Loss of balance and coordination: Difficulty walking, standing, or performing similar tasks.
•  Pain or numbness: Pain, tingling, or numbness on the affected side of the body.
•  Impaired speech or difficulty swallowing: Trouble speaking or moving the muscles of the face.

It is important to see a doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. Early diagnosis and intervention can help manage them and improve your prognosis.

What is the Prognosis and Treatment for Hemiplegia?

The prognosis for someone experiencing hemiplegia depends on many factors. 

Some people with hemiplegia see significant improvement with therapy, while others may experience permanent disability: 

• Treatment is typically focused on improving mobility, independence, and quality of life. Your doctor may recommend different treatment options, including:
•  Physical therapy to strengthen muscles, improve balance, and increase mobility
• Occupational therapy to relearn daily activities and dress, eat, or bathe comfortably
• Speech therapy to improve speech or swallowing skills
•  Medications to relax muscles, relieve pain, and manage spasticity and discomfort
•  Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, braces, and walking aids to assist with mobility
• Surgery to address muscle stiffness or nerve damage 

A doctor can assess the cause of your hemiplegia and evaluate its severity. They can also recommend the treatment options that may be right for you to potentially improve your prognosis.  

Suffering from Hemiplegia After an Accident?

If you or a loved one has suffered from hemiplegia due to an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Hemiplegia can lead to lifelong disability and expenses, but an experienced Orlando personal injury lawyer can help you determine whether someone else may be responsible for your condition and fight for compensation.

Contact Our Orlando Personal Injury Law Firm For Help Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Orlando, Florida, and need legal help, contact our experienced personal injury lawyers at Payer Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

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