Iv Access For Hemiparesis Stroke: Is It Possible?

Hemiparesis is a common condition after a stroke, affecting about 8 out of 10 stroke survivors. It is characterised by weakness on one side of the body, which can make it difficult to perform everyday activities. The location of the stroke in the brain determines the location of the weakness. For instance, an injury to the left side of the brain, which controls language and speaking, can result in right-sided weakness, while an injury to the right side of the brain, which controls nonverbal communication, can result in left-sided weakness.

Hemiparesis can be treated through rehabilitation, which may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and the use of assistive devices. Treatment aims to increase or regain strength and movement on the affected side. Various techniques can be used, such as modified constraint-induced therapy, electrical stimulation, and mental imagery.

It is important to note that hemiparesis is different for everyone, and recovery can vary depending on the individual. Seeking medical advice and creating a personalised recovery plan is crucial for managing hemiparesis and improving quality of life.

Hemiparesis symptoms

Hemiparesis is a common after-effect of stroke, causing weakness on one side of the body. This one-sided weakness can limit movement and affect basic activities such as dressing, eating, and walking. It can also cause issues with coordination and movement precision. The side of the body affected by hemiparesis depends on the location of the stroke in the brain. For instance, an injury to the left side of the brain can result in right-sided weakness, while left-sided weakness results from injury to the right side of the brain.

The specific symptoms of hemiparesis can include:

• Impaired ability to grab objects
• Decreased movement precision
• Lack of coordination
• Trouble maintaining balance, standing, or walking
• Tingling or numbing sensation on the weak side
• Muscle fatigue

It is important to note that hemiparesis can be a symptom of a stroke. If you experience sudden hemiparesis, you should seek immediate medical attention as it could be an early sign of a stroke or other serious medical condition.

Hemiparesis causes

Hemiparesis is a common after-effect of a stroke, which causes weakness on one side of the body. This one-sided weakness can limit movement and affect basic activities, such as dressing, eating and walking. It is caused by disruptions in the brain, spinal cord or nerves that connect to the affected muscles.

During a stroke, certain parts of the brain do not get enough oxygen, causing cells to die. If these parts are associated with body strength and movement, this can cause hemiparesis. The location of the stroke in the brain will determine the location of the weakness. An injury to the left side of the brain, which controls language and speaking, can result in right-sided weakness, and vice versa.

The side of the body weakened by hemiparesis could be ipsilateral (the same side as the brain injury) or contralateral (the opposite side to the injury). If the stroke occurs on the right side of the brain, the weakness could be on the right or left side of the body.

Hemiparesis can also be caused by:

• Aneurysms and hemorrhages inside the brain
• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Bell's palsy
• Seizures and epilepsy
• Brain tumours (including cancers)
• Nervous system diseases, especially autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)
• Infections that affect the nervous system, like encephalitis, meningitis or Ramsay Hunt syndrome
• Migraine headaches (known as hemiplegic migraines when they involve hemiparesis)

Hemiparesis treatment

Hemiparesis is a common after-effect of a stroke that causes weakness on one side of the body. This one-sided weakness can limit movement and affect everyday activities such as dressing, eating, and walking. It is usually a symptom of a brain-related issue or condition.

Treatment for Hemiparesis

Modified Constraint-Induced Therapy (mCIT)

This treatment forces the use of the weakened part of the body. Regular practice can improve nerve function.

Electrical Stimulation

Electrical stimulation therapy involves placing small electrical pads on the affected body part. An electrical charge is sent to the body to help the muscles contract. Over time, this therapy can train the muscles to become stronger again. Many electrical stimulation devices are covered by insurance and can be used at home.

Cortical Stimulation

Cortical stimulation involves placing a tiny electrode on the dura, the tough membrane covering the brain. An electrical current is sent to the brain while the patient simultaneously undergoes rehabilitation exercises.

Mental Imagery

Imagining the movement of the affected body part activates areas of the brain and muscles as if the person is performing the activity. The nerves in the brain involved in visualization and physical movement overlap, making this an effective activity when paired with other therapies for one-sided weakness.

Assistive Devices

Braces, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs can increase strength and movement. Ankle-foot orthosis braces can help control the ankle and foot. A physical therapist can recommend the appropriate device. Repeated practice and regular activity will help increase control and flexibility and re-establish nerve circuitry.

Home Modifications and Lifestyle Changes

Some simple lifestyle changes can help prevent falls and aid recovery:

• Get and remain active.
• Strengthen leg muscles and balance through exercises.
• Wear flat, wide-toed shoes.
• Use a prescribed assistive device; don’t rely on furniture for support while walking.
• Use precautions when taking medications that cause drowsiness.
• Pay close attention while walking.

Hemiparesis diagnosis

Hemiparesis is the weakness of one entire side of the body, which can make it difficult to perform everyday activities like eating, dressing, or walking. It is a common after-effect of a stroke, but it can also be caused by other conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, or spinal cord injury.

If you experience sudden hemiparesis, you should seek immediate medical attention as it could be a sign of a stroke or another serious medical condition. A doctor will use diagnostic procedures and imaging tests to determine the underlying cause of hemiparesis, which include:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan
• Electromyography (EMG)
• Myelography (imaging test of the spinal cord)

The treatment for hemiparesis will depend on the underlying cause and may include medical and non-medical techniques. Some possible treatments are:

• Electrical stimulation: Small electrical pads are placed on the weak muscles of the affected side, and an electrical charge is sent to the body to help the muscles contract.
• Cortical stimulation: Similar to electrical stimulation, but the electric current is sent to the membrane covering the brain (dura). The patient also has to perform rehabilitation exercises.
• Modified constraint-induced therapy (mCIT): This treatment method forces the use of the weak side of the body, and with regular practice, nerve function may improve.
• Physical therapy: Targeted training to stimulate muscles, prevent muscle spasticity and atrophy, and keep joints flexible.
• Occupational therapy: This can help develop skills to compensate for the difficulty in moving one part of the body and learn techniques for common activities.

It is important to note that hemiparesis should not be self-diagnosed or self-treated. Always consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Hemiparesis recovery

Hemiparesis is a common after-effect of a stroke, causing weakness on one side of the body. This can make everyday activities such as eating, dressing, and walking difficult. However, there are several treatment options available to aid in hemiparesis recovery and improve quality of life.

Treatment Options

• Electrical Stimulation: Small electrical pads are placed on the weak muscles of the affected side, and an electrical charge is sent to the body to help the muscles contract.
• Cortical Stimulation: Similar to electrical stimulation, but the electric current is sent to the dura, the tough membrane covering the brain. Rehabilitation exercises are performed while the brain is subjected to this current.
• Modified Constraint-Induced Therapy (mCIT): This treatment forces the use of the weak side of the body, and with regular practice, nerve function may improve.
• Range-of-Motion Exercises: These exercises can help prevent muscle stiffness and contractures by moving the weakened or paralysed limb.
• Flexibility Training: A stretching program designed in conjunction with a therapist can improve blood circulation and help regain balance and coordination.
• Assistive Devices: Braces, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs can increase strength and movement.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to medical treatment, making some lifestyle changes can help prevent falls and aid in recovery:

• Get and remain active.
• Strengthen leg muscles and improve balance through exercises.
• Wear flat, wide-toed shoes to reduce the risk of tripping and help maintain balance.
• Use a prescribed assistive device instead of relying on furniture for support while walking.
• Take precautions when taking medications that cause drowsiness.
• Pay close attention while walking.

Frequently asked questions