Hemiplegia is characterized by what?

Hemiplegia is defined as paralysis that affects one side of the body, which can occur due to neurological conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, or diseases affecting the central nervous system. This condition results in a loss of voluntary control and strength on the side that is affected, leading to significant challenges in mobility and daily activities.

When considering the context of the other options, paralysis of the lower body typically describes paraplegia, which affects only the legs and not one side of the body. General weakness in the limbs suggests a broader issue affecting both sides of the body or all four limbs, which does not specifically align with the definition of hemiplegia. Lastly, loss of motor skills in the hands could occur as a result of hemiplegia but does not encapsulate the full extent of the condition, which involves paralysis of an entire side of the body, not just the hands. Thus, the main characteristic of hemiplegia is indeed paralysis on one side of the body.