How to restore normal muscle mass in cases of muscle atrophy
May 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
Patients with muscle atrophy can recover through conservative approaches, as follows: physical therapy methods such as acupuncture, massage, and tuina may be employed to improve blood circulation and restore muscular function, thereby achieving rehabilitation. In daily life, patients can perform mild rehabilitative exercises under the guidance of their physicians; over time—and in accordance with disease progression—the intensity and difficulty of these exercises can be gradually increased.
Muscle atrophy refers to a reduction in muscle volume resulting from impaired nutrition of skeletal muscle, leading to thinning or even disappearance of muscle fibers. It is commonly caused by either primary muscle disorders or dysfunction of the nervous system. Major etiologies include neurogenic atrophy, myogenic atrophy, disuse atrophy, and atrophy due to other causes. So, how can muscle atrophy be reversed?
How to Restore Normal Muscle Function in Cases of Atrophy
Patients with muscle atrophy may recover through conservative approaches, as follows: Physical therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and tuina (Chinese therapeutic manipulation) can be employed to improve local blood circulation and restore muscular function, thereby achieving rehabilitation. In daily life, patients should follow their physician’s guidance to perform gentle rehabilitative exercises; over time—and as their condition improves—they may gradually increase exercise intensity to help restore atrophied muscles. Psychological counseling is also beneficial, helping patients maintain a positive mindset, which contributes significantly to recovery. When necessary, surgical intervention may be considered.
Muscle atrophy typically manifests as muscle weakness and decreased muscle mass. These changes commonly present with the following symptoms: 1. Difficulty running or jumping—this is often one of the earliest signs of muscular dystrophy. 2. Frequent falls—primarily attributable to muscle weakness and reduced muscle mass. 3. Unsteady or waddling gait. 4. Muscle pain and stiffness. 5. Osteoporosis—resulting from accelerated calcium loss secondary to prolonged muscle malnutrition. 6. Learning difficulties.
Following surgery, patients should receive neurotrophic medications—such as B-complex vitamins—to promote nerve regeneration, enhance neuronal activity, and alleviate muscle atrophy. We hope this information proves helpful to you!
