Loss of strength is a concerning symptom that can have many causes. It refers to a reduction in your ability to exert force or power with your muscles. This can make daily activities like lifting objects, climbing stairs, or even getting out of a chair more difficult.
There are a few key reasons why someone might experience loss of strength:
- Aging - As we get older, there is a natural decline in muscle mass and strength, typically beginning around age 30. This condition is called sarcopenia. The loss of strength is gradual but can really add up over the years.
- Injury - An injury to a muscle, tendon, ligament, or nerve can result in weakness in that area. For example, a rotator cuff tear in the shoulder often leads to loss of strength in the arm.
- Illness - Many diseases and chronic health conditions can sap your strength. For instance, people with chronic fatigue syndrome often have severe muscle weakness. Other examples include multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiac disease.
- Inactivity - The old adage "use it or lose it" really applies here. Being sedentary causes your muscles to atrophy and lose strength over time. Bed rest or immobility after surgery can also trigger weakness.
- Nutritional deficiencies - Not getting enough key nutrients like protein, iron, vitamin D, and B vitamins can impair muscle function and energy production. This accelerates strength decline.
- Medications - Some prescription drugs list muscle weakness or fatigue as potential side effects. Steroids like prednisone are notorious for causing weakness when taken long-term.
- Hormonal changes - Shifts in testosterone, growth hormone, and cortisol due to medical conditions can decrease muscle mass and strength. Low testosterone in particular is linked to loss of strength in aging men.
The key is identifying the root cause of your strength loss. See your doctor for a full evaluation. They will review your symptoms, perform a physical exam of your muscles, and may order blood tests or imaging if disease is suspected.
To restore strength, the treatment depends on the underlying reason:
- Progressively increase physical activity and exercise to rebuild muscle mass. Weight lifting is ideal, but any activity counts.
- Correct vitamin or nutrient deficiencies through diet changes or supplementation.
- Address any underlying illnesses or get injuries properly treated.
- If medications are the culprit, your doctor may be able to switch prescriptions or lower doses.
- For low testosterone, hormone replacement therapy with products like Human Antiaging Center can help normalize levels.
- Physical therapy can also help rebuild strength through targeted exercises.
With proper treatment, most people can regain meaningful strength, allowing them to stay active and independent as they age. Temporary lapses in strength due to illness or injury also often resolve once the underlying cause is corrected. Don't ignore persistent muscle weakness - see your doctor to determine the cause and get your strength back!