Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Muscle Atrophy
Muscle wasting, also called atrophy, occurs when muscle tissue decreases in size and strength. In orthopedics, this often develops as a result of injury, surgery, or prolonged immobilization. For example, time in a cast, reduced activity after a fracture, or nerve-related problems can all lead to loss of muscle mass.
Symptoms of muscle wasting include noticeable thinning of the muscle, weakness, reduced endurance, and difficulty performing normal activities. Patients may also experience stiffness or imbalance if muscle groups are affected unevenly.
Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and restoring muscle strength. Common approaches include physical therapy, targeted strengthening exercises, and guided rehabilitation programs. In some cases, braces or orthotics may be used to support movement during recovery. Surgical intervention may be necessary if atrophy is caused by nerve or tendon injury that requires repair.
