Loss of strength is a concerning symptom that can have many different causes. It refers to a reduction in your muscles' ability to generate force and power movements like lifting, pushing, and pulling. There are two main types of muscle weakness:
- Generalized weakness affects your whole body. It may come on gradually or suddenly. General weakness is often a sign of a systemic problem like a chronic condition or illness.
- Localized weakness impacts a specific body part like an arm or leg. It suggests an issue with the muscles or nerves in that region. Local weakness after an injury indicates you may have muscle or nerve damage.
Some common causes of muscle weakness include:
- Aging - As we get older, we lose muscle mass and strength. Loss typically begins around age 50. Staying active can minimize age-related weakness.
- Injuries - Traumatic injuries like fractures or tears can damage muscles, tendons, and nerves. This leads to weakness during healing and rehabilitation.
- Chronic diseases - Illnesses like cancer, kidney disease, heart failure, and liver disease sap your strength over time. Managing the illness may reduce weakness.
- Nerve compression - When a herniated disc or other issue compresses a nerve, it interrupts signals to muscles. This can cause localized limb weakness.
- Medications - Some drugs like statins, steroids, and chemotherapy agents can induce muscle weakness as a side effect. Adjusting medication may help.
- Vitamin deficiencies - Low levels of vitamins D, B12, and other nutrients can diminish muscle health and performance. Correcting deficiencies through diet or supplements often improves weakness.
- Overtraining - Excessive high-intensity exercise without enough rest leads to overtraining syndrome. Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms.
Diagnosis typically begins with a physical exam to identify areas of weakness. Your doctor may order bloodwork, nerve conduction studies, MRIs, and other tests to pinpoint the cause.
Treatment focuses on managing any underlying condition and may include medication, physical therapy, exercises, assistive devices like braces, and lifestyle changes. Some types of weakness can't be reversed but may still be improved with rehabilitation.
At Renew Hormone Solutions, our hormone specialists have extensive experience evaluating and treating muscle weakness related to aging and hormone imbalances. Our personalized programs can help you regain strength, vitality, and an active lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
The takeaway is that muscle weakness has many potential causes. See your doctor promptly if you experience sudden or unexplained loss of strength. With an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment, it may be possible to restore much of your previous abilities. Don't ignore weakness so you can get back to regular activity as soon as possible!