It is a condition in which muscle tissue is lost or thinned, resulting in decreased muscle mass and strength. Muscle atrophy can affect any muscle in the body, but it is more common in the arms and legs. There are various causes for muscle atrophy, including lack of physical activity, aging, malnutrition, nerve damage, or certain diseases. Atrophied muscles can result in weakness, fatigue, mobility problems, and increased injury risk. Exercise, eating well, and treating the underlying cause can prevent or reverse muscle atrophy.
Typically, muscle atrophy can be divided into two types: disuse atrophy and neurogenic atrophy.
Muscle atrophy occurs when the muscles aren't used enough, as a result of factors such as sedentary lifestyles, bed rest, immobilization, or injury. The muscles lose tone and mass, as the body breaks down the muscle protein to conserve energy. By increasing physical activity and stimulating the muscles, disuse atrophy can be reversed.
Symptoms of neurogenic atrophy include spinal cord injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, and damage to the nerves that connect to the muscles. Muscles lose their function and mass when nerves cannot send signals to them. Neurogenic atrophy is more severe and more difficult to reverse than disuse atrophy.
In addition to reduced muscle size and strength, other symptoms of muscle atrophy include:
Having difficulty moving or performing daily tasks
Muscle pain or stiffness
Spasms or cramps in the muscles
Affected limbs are numb or tingly
A change in the texture or color of the skin
Osteoporosis or decreased bone density
There are several ways a doctor can diagnose muscle atrophy, including a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. The doctor will look for signs of muscle weakness, wasting, or nerve damage, and ask about the onset, duration, and severity of the symptoms.
Muscle atrophy can be caused by infections, inflammation, or metabolic disorders, which can be detected by blood tests
Muscle and nerve electrical activity is measured with electromyography (EMG)
NCS: Measures the speed and strength of nerve signals
MRI: To diagnose muscle or nerve damage, inflammation, or tumors
To diagnose bone or joint problems, fractures, or infections using a computed tomography (CT) scan
Infections, fractures, or bone problems can be detected with X-rays
The procedure of taking a small sample of muscle tissue for microscopic examination is called a muscle biopsy
Muscle atrophy can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on its cause, type, and severity.
Exercises, stretching, massage, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound can all be used to improve muscle strength, flexibility, and function.
To assist with daily activities, such as dressing, eating, bathing, or writing, and to adapt to the changes caused by muscle atrophy. Equipment, strategies, or modifications, such as special utensils, clothing, or furniture, may be part of occupational therapy.
Some medications may also prevent or slow down muscle atrophy, such as growth hormone, testosterone, or creatine. Some medications may treat the underlying condition that causes muscle atrophy, such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, steroids, or anticonvulsants.
The purpose of surgery is to repair or replace damaged nerves, muscles, or joints, or to remove tumors or infections that cause muscle atrophy. Surgery is also used to improve the appearance or function of affected muscles, including tendon transfer, muscle flap surgery, and cosmetic surgery.
Nutrition: To provide adequate protein, calories, vitamins, and minerals for muscle growth and repair. Also, nutrition may be helpful in preventing or treating conditions that cause muscle atrophy, such as malnutrition, diabetes, or osteoporosis. Dietary changes, supplements, or tube feeding may be used to provide nutrition.
By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and treating the underlying cause, muscle atrophy can be prevented or delayed.
Regular exercise and avoiding prolonged inactivity
Maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet that meets protein and calorie requirements
Staying hydrated and drinking enough water
Don't smoke, drink alcohol, or take drugs that can harm your muscles or nerves
Management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol
If you notice any signs or symptoms of muscle atrophy, seek medical attention immediately
