Loss of strength - Revive Hormones

Loss of strength refers to a reduction in one's ability to exert force or power using their muscles. This can have many causes, ranging from aging and injuries to illnesses affecting the muscles or nervous system. Some key things to know about loss of strength:

• It can happen slowly over time as we age. Most people begin losing muscle mass starting around age 30-40 at a rate of 3-5% per decade. This "sarcopenia" leads to reduced strength.
• Injuries, especially to tendons, ligaments or nerves can lead to temporary or permanent strength loss in the affected limb or body part.
• Neurological conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple sclerosis (MS) can interfere with nervous system signaling that controls muscle movement.
• Muscle diseases such as muscular dystrophy cause progressive loss of muscle tissue, significantly reducing strength over time.
• Metabolic disorders like diabetes can cause nerve damage and muscle wasting, lowering strength.
• Inflammatory diseases like arthritis can cause severe muscle weakness around inflamed joints.
• Steroid medications like corticosteroids may trigger muscle weakening.
• Periods of immobilization from casting, bedrest or low physical activity can result in noticeable strength loss.

The impacts of reduced strength levels can be significant, potentially interfering with daily activities like climbing stairs, carrying objects, exercising and participating in sports. Risk of falls and fractures also increases. To evaluate strength loss, doctors assess symptoms and medical history, conduct physical exams testing muscle power during resisted movements, and may order imaging tests. Underlying conditions are then treated. To improve diminished strength, options range from physical therapy and home exercises to medications enhancing muscle growth or nerve signaling. Proper nutrition supports muscle health. Surgery may help injuries affecting strength. Assistive devices provide support during daily tasks. The good news is that much strength loss is preventable through healthy lifestyle habits. Staying active with resistance training and aerobics can help maintain muscle and nerve function. Eating protein-rich diets also supports muscle as we age. Avoiding injuries prevents permanent damage. Listen to your body and seek medical care if you notice rapid unexplained muscle weakening.