Logan Steele
There are many reasons why someone might experience muscle deterioration. This can be due to ageing, lack of physical activity, malnutrition, nerve damage, or certain medical conditions such as muscular dystrophy or multiple sclerosis. The medical term for muscle deterioration is muscle atrophy, which is characterised by a decrease in muscle mass and strength. This can be caused by disuse atrophy, where muscles are not used enough, or neurogenic atrophy, which is caused by nerve damage. The effects of muscle atrophy can be reversed through exercise and a healthy diet.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main Cause | Inactivity or lack of physical activity |
| Other Causes | Age, genetics, malnutrition, nerve damage, certain medical conditions |
| Symptoms | Loss of muscle mass, muscle weakness, numbness, tingling in limbs, trouble walking or balancing, difficulty swallowing |
| Treatment | Exercise, physical therapy, ultrasound therapy, surgery, healthy diet |
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What You'll Learn
Muscular dystrophy
The main sign of muscular dystrophy is progressive muscle weakness. Specific signs and symptoms vary across different types of muscular dystrophy and typically appear in early childhood. Some types of muscular dystrophy are defined by a specific feature or by where in the body symptoms begin. For example, in myotonic muscular dystrophy, the facial and neck muscles are usually the first to be affected, resulting in an inability to relax muscles following contractions. People with this form often have long, thin faces; drooping eyelids; and swan-like necks. In facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), muscle weakness typically begins in the face, hip, and shoulders, with the shoulder blades sticking out like wings when the arms are raised. Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy affects the hip and shoulder muscles first, causing difficulty in lifting the front part of the foot and leading to frequent tripping.
Complications of progressive muscle weakness in muscular dystrophy include trouble walking, eventually requiring the use of a wheelchair, and difficulty with daily activities that involve using the arms. Other complications include the shortening of muscles or tendons around joints (contractures), which can further limit mobility, and breathing problems as respiratory muscles weaken. Curved spine (scoliosis) can occur due to weakened back muscles, and heart problems may arise due to reduced heart muscle efficiency. Swallowing difficulties may also develop, leading to nutritional deficiencies and aspiration pneumonia.
While there is currently no cure for muscular dystrophy, treatment options, including medications and therapy, can help manage symptoms and slow the course of the disease. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone and deflazacort (Emflaza), can assist in improving muscle strength and delaying the progression of certain types of muscular dystrophy. Newer drugs like eteplirsen (Exondys 51) and golodirsen (Vyondys 53) have been approved for treating specific types of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Heart medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or beta-blockers, may be used if muscular dystrophy damages the heart. Range-of-motion and stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and mobility, as muscular dystrophy can restrict joint movement.
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Neurogenic atrophy
Muscle atrophy is the wasting or thinning of muscle mass. It can be caused by disuse of muscles or neurogenic conditions. Disuse atrophy occurs when muscles are not used enough, and it can be reversed with exercise and a healthy diet.
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Guillain-Barre syndrome
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Spinal cord injury
- Multiple sclerosis
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Age-related muscle loss
Muscle mass typically peaks for men in their early 40s, then gradually starts to decline. This age-related muscle loss is known as sarcopenia. It can make everyday tasks more challenging, such as carrying groceries, kneeling, or doing household chores. It is also associated with a higher risk of falling and a loss of independence.
The rate of muscle loss and its overall extent largely depend on how well we take care of our bodies. Staying active and exercising regularly can significantly slow down age-related muscle loss. It is beneficial to engage in strengthening exercises at least twice a week, targeting all significant muscle groups. Some examples of such exercises include lifting weights, sit-ups, push-ups, and squats. Additionally, balance exercises, such as walking heel-to-toe in a straight line or standing on one leg, can also be beneficial.
It is important to note that muscle loss is not inevitable, and even individuals in their 70s and 80s can build muscle through exercise. Research has shown that individuals in this age group can achieve similar strength gains as those in their 20s and 30s when participating in a strengthening exercise program with weight lifting.
Apart from exercise, adequate protein intake is crucial for maintaining muscle health. With age, the body becomes less efficient at breaking down and utilising protein. Therefore, adults over 60 should aim for 0.72 to 0.81 grams of protein per pound of body weight. For example, a 200-pound person should consume approximately 144 to 162 grams of protein daily, divided into roughly equal portions at each meal.
Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon and flaxseed, may help with muscle mass and function. If these foods are not part of your regular diet, your healthcare provider may suggest supplements.
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Lack of physical activity
Sedentary lifestyles can lead to disuse syndrome, where the body's systems deteriorate due to a lack of use. This can result in muscle weakness, where muscles lose strength and are prone to injury, and are unable to hold the weight of the body. This can lead to poor posture, and chronic neck and back pain. Lack of physical activity can also lead to muscle fatigue, where there is a decline in muscle performance, and decreased muscle mass and strength.
People who are unable to move due to disease or injury may experience muscle wasting, and this can be reversed with a proper diet, exercise, or physical therapy. Ultrasound therapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to aid in muscle healing. Physical therapy can also help to improve general health and reduce chronic pain.
It is important to note that muscle weakness can be caused by other factors, such as age, medications, or underlying health conditions, and it is always advisable to consult a doctor or healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
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Malnutrition
Muscle atrophy can be a sign of malnutrition, as the body is not getting the nutrients it needs to maintain muscle mass. This can be true even if the person is overweight, as they may still be undernourished if their diet is lacking in the right nutrients. Micronutrient undernutrition, for example, can lead to serious and lasting effects as it progresses. This can include vitamin A deficiency, causing vision problems, or vitamin D deficiency leading to soft bones.
The effects of malnutrition can be combated with physical training and a healthy diet. Patients at risk of malnutrition are offered energy- and protein-rich meals, and those at severe risk are offered dietary interventions, including energy- and protein-rich meals, supplementation, or tube feeding.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several reasons why your muscles may be deteriorating. The most common cause is muscle atrophy, which can be caused by disuse of muscles, nerve problems, or disease. Symptoms of muscle atrophy include a decrease in muscle mass, weakness, and numbness or tingling in the limbs. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.
While muscle deterioration is a natural part of the ageing process, there are ways to prevent and slow it down. Staying physically active is one of the most effective ways to prevent muscle loss. This can include strength training, cardio, and exercises such as rowing, swimming, walking, and cycling. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet with sufficient protein and other nutrients is crucial in preventing muscle deterioration.
If you suspect that your muscles are deteriorating, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They can help diagnose the cause of your muscle loss and develop a treatment plan. Treatment options may include physical therapy, progressive resistance-based strength training, and a nutrition plan that includes adequate protein and calories.
