What does hemiplegia refer to?

Hemiplegia refers specifically to paralysis affecting one side of the body, which can result from various neurological conditions such as a stroke or traumatic brain injury. This paralysis can impact both the arm and leg on the affected side, significantly affecting a person's mobility and daily functions. Individuals with hemiplegia may have difficulty with balance, coordination, and performing everyday activities independently.

The other choices do not accurately describe hemiplegia. Paralysis solely of the legs would be known as paraplegia, while loss of fine motor skills can occur for various reasons but does not define hemiplegia itself. Similarly, difficulty in speaking relates to conditions like aphasia, which is separate from the physical paralysis associated with hemiplegia. Understanding this distinction helps recognize how hemiplegia uniquely impacts individuals and their rehabilitation needs.