Loss of muscle mass - Restore Wellness Clinic

Loss of Muscle Mass

Loss of muscle mass, known as muscle atrophy, occurs when the muscles in the body weaken, deteriorate, and reduce in size. This leads to loss of strength, endurance, and functionality of the affected muscles.

There are two main causes of muscle atrophy:

• Disuse atrophy - this happens due to inactivity and lack of exercise. For example, when a limb is in a cast or splint after an injury, the muscles can waste away due to prolonged immobilization. This type of atrophy can usually be reversed with exercise.
• Age-related atrophy - as we grow older, there is a natural progressive loss of muscle mass. The condition is called sarcopenia, and it begins in the 30s or 40s. Contributing factors include reduced hormones, decreased activity levels, malnutrition, and neuromuscular decline.

Signs and Symptoms

The main signs and symptoms of muscle atrophy are:

• Decreased muscle strength
• Impaired balance and mobility
• Fatigue, lethargy, and feeling weak
• Weight loss
• Muscle shrinking
• Poor muscle tone

In severe cases, it can impact motor functions like standing up, walking, grasping objects, swallowing food, etc.

Risk Factors

Certain conditions that increase the risk of muscle atrophy are:

• Aging
• Injuries and fractures
• Joint immobilization
• Inflammatory diseases
• Nerve compression disorders

Other factors like malnutrition, hormone deficiency, and genetics also play a role.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Muscle atrophy is diagnosed in part through a physical examination assessing muscle bulk, tone, strength, and function. Blood tests help rule out hormonal disorders.

Electrical tests that analyze muscles and nerves can confirm nerve damage. Imaging tests like MRI or ultrasound examine muscle structure and size.

Treatments focus on restoring muscle strength through programmed exercise and physical therapy. Maintaining good nutrition also helps rebuild wasted muscles. Additional treatment targets the underlying medical condition.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit the Restore Wellness Clinic.