Dominic Stone
Muscle atrophy is the loss of muscle mass and strength. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including malnutrition, age, genetics, lack of physical activity, and certain medical conditions. Disuse atrophy occurs when muscles are not used enough, while neurogenic atrophy is caused by nerve problems or diseases. The time it takes for muscles to atrophy depends on age, fitness level, and cause. Generally, muscle strength starts to decline after a few weeks of inactivity, and muscle atrophy becomes noticeable within the first three months. However, older individuals or those with certain health conditions may experience atrophy sooner. Maintaining some physical activity, even during rest periods, can help prevent muscle atrophy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Malnutrition, age, genetics, lack of physical activity, nerve problems, certain medical conditions |
| Symptoms | Reduced muscle mass, weakness, numbness, trouble walking or balancing, difficulty swallowing or speaking |
| Types | Disuse (physiologic) atrophy, neurogenic atrophy |
| Disuse atrophy causes | Sedentary lifestyle, malnourishment, lack of exercise, desk job, bed rest, genetic disorders, age-related atrophy (sarcopenia), stroke, certain medical conditions |
| Neurogenic atrophy causes | Injury, diseases affecting nerves (e.g., ALS, Guillain-Barre syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, multiple sclerosis) |
| Treatment | Exercise, healthy diet, physical therapy, nutritional supplements, electrical stimulation |
| Time to atrophy | Varies; can start within 2-3 weeks of disuse, faster in older people |
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What You'll Learn
Disuse (physiologic) atrophy
Disuse atrophy, also known as physiologic atrophy, is caused by insufficient muscle use. When muscles are not contracted, the body interprets this as a sign that they are no longer needed, leading to their breakdown and subsequent decrease in size and strength. This can occur within two to three weeks of muscle disuse, with some studies showing substantial skeletal muscle loss within just five days.
Disuse atrophy is commonly observed in clinical settings following limb immobilization, bed rest, spinal cord injury, or nerve damage. It can also affect individuals with sedentary lifestyles, those with health issues that limit mobility, or those who are malnourished.
The extent of muscle atrophy due to disuse varies depending on several factors, including age, muscle function, fibre type composition, and the degree of inactivity. For instance, older individuals tend to experience a more rapid decline in muscle strength during periods of inactivity compared to younger people. Additionally, athletes can generally maintain their muscle strength for about three weeks without exercise, while non-athletes may be able to sustain their strength for a similar duration.
Disuse atrophy can often be reversed through regular exercise and improved nutrition. Physical therapy, exercise plans, and nutritional supplements may be recommended by healthcare providers to help rebuild muscle tissue. Working out in water, such as swimming or aquatic exercises, can also aid in reducing muscle workload during recovery.
While disuse atrophy can impact anyone, it is important to note that it is different from neurogenic atrophy, which is caused by nerve injuries or diseases affecting the nerves connected to the muscles. Neurogenic atrophy tends to occur more suddenly and may be more challenging to treat due to physical nerve damage.
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Neurogenic atrophy
Diseases and conditions that can affect these nerves include Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, Guillain-Barre syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, spinal cord injury, and multiple sclerosis. Neurogenic atrophy can also be caused by a stroke or other conditions that prevent limb movement, such as dermatomyositis.
The diagnosis of neurogenic atrophy involves a physical examination, during which a healthcare provider will assess the patient's arms and legs and measure muscle mass. Additionally, tests such as blood tests, muscle or nerve biopsies, electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction studies, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans may be ordered.
Unlike disuse atrophy, neurogenic atrophy typically cannot be reversed due to the physical damage to the nerves. However, treatment options include a special kind of physical therapy called electrical stimulation, as well as ultrasound therapy and, in some cases, surgery to correct a contracture.
To summarise, neurogenic atrophy is a severe form of muscle atrophy caused by nerve damage or disease, resulting in muscle breakdown and loss of strength. It often occurs suddenly and requires specialised treatment approaches, as the damage cannot usually be reversed.
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Factors affecting muscle atrophy
Muscle atrophy is the loss or thinning of muscle tissue and mass. There are several factors that can cause muscle atrophy, and these factors vary depending on the type of atrophy.
Disuse (Physiologic) Atrophy
Disuse atrophy is caused by not using muscles enough. This can be due to leading a sedentary lifestyle, malnutrition or malnourishment, not getting enough exercise, having a desk job, being on bed rest, or having health problems that limit movement. This type of atrophy can occur within two to three weeks of not using the muscles, and it can sometimes be reversed with exercise and a healthy diet.
Neurogenic Atrophy
Neurogenic atrophy is caused by an injury or disease affecting the nerves that connect to the muscles. When these nerves are damaged, they cannot trigger the muscle contractions needed to stimulate muscle activity. This type of atrophy can develop sooner than disuse atrophy, depending on the health condition. Neurogenic atrophy typically cannot be reversed due to the physical damage done to the nerves, but it can sometimes be treated with a special kind of physical therapy called electrical stimulation.
Pathologic Atrophy
Pathologic atrophy is associated with aging, starvation, and diseases such as Cushing's disease, which can be caused by the overuse of corticosteroids or having overactive adrenal glands. As people age, their bodies produce fewer proteins that promote muscle growth, resulting in a condition called sarcopenia.
Genetic Factors
Genetics can also play a role in muscle atrophy. Certain genetic disorders, such as muscular dystrophy or Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, can lead to muscle atrophy. Additionally, genetic factors can influence how quickly individuals lose and regain their fitness levels during periods of inactivity.
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Preventing muscle atrophy
Muscle atrophy is the thinning or loss of muscle mass, which can occur due to malnourishment, genetic disorders, consistent sitting, being bedridden, or natural aging. It can also be caused by nerve problems or diseases, which is known as neurogenic atrophy. While this type of atrophy cannot be reversed due to the physical damage caused to the nerves, disuse atrophy can be prevented and reversed.
Disuse atrophy occurs when muscles are not used enough, leading to a decrease in muscle mass and strength. This can be prevented by engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy diet. Even small amounts of exercise can help to prevent muscle atrophy, with studies showing that neuromuscular electrical stimulation can prevent muscle atrophy during leg immobilization. Additionally, working out in water can reduce muscle workload and is recommended by healthcare providers.
To prevent disuse atrophy, it is important to incorporate strength training and aerobic exercise into your routine. This can include endurance sports such as running or swimming, which will help to maintain cardio fitness. For older adults, strength training, cardio, flexibility exercises, and a nutrition plan that includes more protein and calories can help to prevent muscle atrophy.
It is also important to note that muscle atrophy can occur faster after an injury, illness, or any prolonged period of inactivity. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a consistent exercise routine and seek medical advice if you notice any symptoms of muscle atrophy, such as a decrease in muscle mass or weakness in the limbs.
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Treating muscle atrophy
Muscle atrophy is a condition that results from a lack of physical activity or physical immobility due to injury. It can also be caused by neuromuscular or neurological issues, nerve damage, or nerve impairment caused by metabolic, genetic, or nervous system disorders.
There are several treatment options for muscle atrophy, depending on the underlying cause and the severity of muscle loss. If muscle atrophy is caused by an underlying disease or condition, it is important to identify and treat that condition. Treatment options for muscle atrophy include:
Neurotherapy
Neurotherapy is a treatment option for muscle atrophy that uses electrical stimulation to stimulate nerves and improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. This can be done through electrical muscle stimulation (EMS), functional electrical stimulation (FES), or ultrasound (US). Neurotherapy can be done in a clinic or at home and has been shown to improve strength and mobility in weakened muscles.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy involves performing specific stretches and exercises to reduce immobility and improve strength and mobility. This can include interdisciplinary therapeutic approaches such as walking aids, orthoses, breathing exercises, and exercises for the cardiovascular system.
Drug Treatment
While there is currently no drug approved specifically for treating skeletal muscle atrophy, studies have shown that certain drugs can improve muscle function. For example, GSK2881078 has been shown to improve muscle growth and strength, and ghrelin has been found to reduce muscle atrophy in some cases.
Surgery
Invasive surgery is an option for treating muscle atrophy, but it carries a risk of complications such as wound healing or infection.
Focused Ultrasound
Focused ultrasound is a non-invasive alternative to surgery that uses sound waves to target areas of muscle damage and promote healing. It has the potential to improve quality of life and reduce costs, but it is still in the research phase and is not yet approved by regulatory bodies.
Nutrition and Exercise
In some cases, muscle atrophy can be prevented or treated with proper nutrition and a regular exercise regimen. Good nutrition, including adequate protein intake, is important for maintaining and rebuilding muscle mass.
It is important to consult with a doctor or medical professional to determine the best treatment plan for muscle atrophy, as the cause and severity of the condition can vary.
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Frequently asked questions
Muscle atrophy is when your muscles look smaller than normal. It can be caused by malnutrition, age, genetics, a lack of physical activity, or certain medical conditions.
Muscle atrophy is caused by insufficient muscle contractions, which can be due to disuse or neurogenic factors. Disuse atrophy occurs when muscles are not used enough, leading to a decrease in size and strength. Neurogenic atrophy is caused by nerve problems or diseases that affect the nerves connecting to the muscles, impairing their ability to contract.
The time it takes for muscle atrophy to occur varies depending on several factors, including age, fitness level, cause of atrophy, and individual genetics. Generally, muscle strength starts to decline after a few days of inactivity, with more significant losses occurring after three to four weeks. Substantial muscle loss can occur after eight to twelve weeks of inactivity.
Yes, muscle atrophy can sometimes be reversed, depending on the type. Disuse atrophy can often be treated with regular exercise and improved nutrition. Neurogenic atrophy, caused by nerve damage, typically cannot be reversed, but special physical therapy, such as electrical stimulation, may help.
