HEMIBALLISM Meaning and
Definition
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Hemiballism is a medical condition characterized by sudden, involuntary, and violent flinging or jerking movements of one side of the body, usually the arm and leg on the same side. These movements are typically large and forceful, resembling ballistic motion hence the term "hemiballism." Hemiballism is caused by damage or dysfunction of a specific part of the brain called the subthalamic nucleus, which is responsible for controlling movements.
This condition is often associated with vascular lesions or strokes in the contralateral (opposite) side of the brain. However, it can also be caused by other underlying conditions such as infections, brain tumors, or certain metabolic disorders. Hemiballism usually affects one side of the body but can occasionally spread to involve both sides, resulting in more severe symptoms.
The movements associated with hemiballism are involuntary and uncontrollable, occurring abruptly and without warning. They can be disruptive to daily activities, affecting coordination, mobility, and overall quality of life. Treatment of hemiballism may involve medications that help reduce the abnormal movements, such as antipsychotics or medications that target the subthalamic nucleus. In some cases, surgery may be considered for individuals who do not respond to medications. Rehabilitation, physical therapy, and occupational therapy may also be beneficial to manage symptoms and improve function.
Overall, hemiballism is a neurological condition characterized by uncontrolled flinging or jerking movements on one side of the body, caused by dysfunction or damage to the subthalamic nucleus in the brain.
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Hemichorea; lively shaking or jerking movements involving one side of the body.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HEMIBALLISM
- gemiballism
- bemiballism
- nemiballism
- jemiballism
- uemiballism
- yemiballism
- hwmiballism
- hsmiballism
- hdmiballism
- hrmiballism
- h4miballism
- h3miballism
- heniballism
- hekiballism
- hejiballism
- hemuballism
- hemjballism
- hemkballism
- hemoballism
- hem9ballism
Etymology of HEMIBALLISM
The word "hemiballism" is derived from the Greek roots "hemi", meaning half, and "ballismos", meaning wild or violent movement. "Hemi" refers to the fact that the condition affects only one side of the body, while "ballismos" describes the involuntary and erratic movements characteristic of the disorder. When combined, "hemiballism" describes the condition of unilateral (affecting one side) and uncontrolled movements.
