Decreased muscle mass - Wellness Hormone Clinic

What is decreased muscle mass?

Decreased muscle mass, or skeletal muscle atrophy, occurs when the overall size and strength of skeletal muscles are reduced over time. This is a common condition as we get older, but it can occur at any age and lead to significant mobility issues, weakness, and low energy.

Some key points on decreased muscle mass:

• It involves the breakdown of muscle proteins faster than the body makes new ones
• It has many causes, including poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyle, and aging
• Symptoms include feeling weak despite rest, struggling with daily tasks, and noticing muscle shrinkage
• It is diagnosed based on physical exams testing strength and function, and sometimes imaging tests
• It can be reversed through proper exercise, adequate protein intake, and correction of underlying issues

There are several steps you can take to improve decreased muscle mass:

• Make sure you get adequate protein - about 0.5 grams per pound of body weight per day
• Regularly lift weights or do bodyweight or resistance band exercises
• Do balance exercises to prevent injury from falls
• Get checked for any underlying conditions contributing to muscle loss

If self-care steps don't work, consider seeking expert help. The specialists at (/) can evaluate your muscle loss and create a customized treatment plan. They offer state-of-the-art therapies including nutrition optimization, hormone replacement, and muscle-building protocols to restore strength, function and vitality.

Here are answers to some common questions about decreased muscle mass:

What causes muscle wasting?

Muscle wasting has many potential causes including poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyles, chronic illnesses, medications, and age-related loss of hormones or nerve supply to muscles.

How fast can muscle be built back?

If properly stimulated through exercise and nutrition, muscle can be rebuilt relatively quickly - even older adults can gain a few pounds of muscle in just 6-8 weeks of strength training. Consistency is key.

What diseases cause muscle loss?

Certain diseases like cancer, heart failure, diabetes, and kidney disease markedly accelerate muscle loss. Getting these conditions under optimal control can help minimize accompanying muscle wasting.

Regaining muscle takes dedication through proper nutrition, exercise, rest, and sometimes additional support under a doctor's care. The muscle-repair experts at Wellness Hormone Clinic can help create comprehensive plans tailored to your unique needs and goals. Consider scheduling a consultation today if muscle loss concerns you.