Decreased muscle mass, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscles in the body weaken, shrink and lose strength over time. This condition can happen due to various factors like aging, lack of physical activity, diseases, injuries, poor nutrition etc.
Some key points about decreased muscle mass:
- It is characterized by the shrinking and weakening of skeletal muscles in the body over time. Generally, people start losing muscle mass from age of 30 onwards.
- Sarcopenia is the term used for age-related muscle loss that happens as we grow older. It starts slowly in 30s but picks up pace especially after age 60.
- Muscle atrophy can happen due to immobilization after injuries/illnesses when limbs are kept inactive in casts or braces. The unused muscles start wasting away.
- Certain diseases like cancer, HIV/AIDS, COPD, kidney disease etc directly or indirectly lead to decreased muscle mass due to factors like poor appetite, nutrient malabsorption etc.
Effects of decreased muscle mass:
- It causes general weakness, fatigue, tiredness while doing daily chores
- It increases risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures
- It leads to weight loss and frailty
- Older adults with severe muscle loss often require assistance walking or standing up from sitting position.
Managing and improving decreased muscle mass
The good news is that muscle loss can often be improved and managed through certain lifestyle measures:
- Include strength training exercises like weight/resistance training in routine under guidance of physiotherapist
- Follow a protein-rich diet with nutrients like omega-3, calcium, magnesium etc
- Try muscle stimulating medical treatments like hormone replacement therapy at clinics like New Beginnings HRT Clinic
New Beginnings HRT Clinic specializes in preventing muscle loss through customized hormone therapy plans involving testosterone, HGH and other vital hormones. Book a consultation today to regain your strength and vitality!
I hope this gives a good overview about decreased muscle mass - what it means, why it happens, its effects and how to manage it. Let me know if you need any clarification!