Muscle atrophy
Muscle Atrophy
Muscle atrophy (pronunciation: /ˈmʌsəl æˈtroʊfi/) is a medical condition characterized by the decrease in the mass of the muscle tissue, often resulting in muscle weakness.
Etymology
The term "atrophy" is derived from the Greek word "atrophía" meaning "wasting away". "Muscle" is derived from the Latin word "musculus" meaning "little mouse", possibly due to the appearance of certain muscles moving under the skin.
Definition
Muscle atrophy is a condition that occurs when the muscles waste away due to lack of physical activity. This condition is most commonly found in individuals who have an inactive lifestyle, are bedridden, or are unable to move certain body parts due to a medical condition.
Causes
Muscle atrophy can be caused by a variety of factors including:
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Malnutrition
- Aging
- Nerve damage
- Certain diseases such as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Polio, and Muscular dystrophy
Symptoms
Symptoms of muscle atrophy include:
- Weakness in the affected muscle
- Decreased muscle tone
- Difficulty moving the affected body part
Treatment
Treatment for muscle atrophy typically involves physical therapy and exercise to strengthen the affected muscles. In some cases, dietary changes and medication may also be recommended.
Related Terms
- Muscle hypertrophy: The increase in the size of muscle cells
- Sarcopenia: Age-related muscle atrophy
- Cachexia: Muscle wasting due to severe illness
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Muscle atrophy
- Wikipedia's article - Muscle atrophy
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