What characterizes spastic hemiparesis?

Spastic hemiparesis is characterized by weakness on one side of the body, typically resulting from a neurological condition such as a stroke or cerebral palsy. In this condition, one limb, often the arm, is commonly flexed at the elbow and held closely to the side of the body. This presentation is due to increased muscle tone (spasticity) affecting the upper limb on the affected side, leading to a characteristic posture that can limit movement and mobility.

The flexed position and proximity to the body can hinder the ability to perform certain tasks, such as reaching or grasping. This posture is a direct result of the impaired control and function of the muscles due to the neurological impairment. The affected limb's positioning can lead to compensatory patterns or adaptations in movement, particularly during walking, but fundamentally, the hallmark feature is that the limb is flexed and often held close.

In contrast to other descriptions, such as dragging toes when walking or a normal walking pattern, spastic hemiparesis typically involves significant gait abnormalities and limitations in mobility due to the spasticity in the affected limb.