Muscle Atrophy Meaning – Why Are My Muscles Getting Weaker and Smaller? - #6055

Muscle atrophy refers to the shrinking or weakening of muscles, and it can occur for several reasons. While lack of exercise is a common cause, medical conditions like nerve damage, malnutrition, or even chronic diseases such as ALS or muscular dystrophy can also lead to muscle loss. Long periods of inactivity, like bed rest, can also contribute to this. If your muscle weakness is accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty breathing, swallowing, or sudden muscle pain, it could be a sign of something more serious, and you should see a doctor for further evaluation. Conditions like ALS or nerve damage can cause progressive muscle weakness, so it’s important to identify the cause early. The best way to reverse muscle atrophy is through a combination of strength training exercises, a balanced, high-protein diet, and physical therapy. Rebuilding muscle can take time, often several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the atrophy and the underlying cause. I recommend seeing a healthcare provider to rule out any serious conditions and to get personalized advice on exercises and treatment options. You may benefit from working with a physical therapist to develop a program tailored to your needs.