What condition is characterized by paralysis of one side of the body?

The condition characterized by paralysis of one side of the body is hemiplegia. Hemiplegia is a result of damage to the brain, often from a stroke or traumatic brain injury, which leads to a complete inability to move one side of the body. This paralysis affects both the arm and the leg on that side, severely impacting mobility and function.

Understanding hemiplegia is crucial in the context of brain injury, as it significantly influences rehabilitation strategies and the support needed for individuals recovering from such conditions. It is different from other conditions like hemiparesis, which refers to weakness on one side rather than complete paralysis. Conditions like heterotopic ossification involve abnormal bone formation and hypotension refers to low blood pressure, neither of which directly relates to the paralysis of one side of the body.

This distinction emphasizes the importance of recognizing the specific effects of brain injuries and the terminology used in rehabilitation and clinical assessments.