Loss of strength is a common condition characterized by reduced muscle power, endurance, or activity. This can happen due to various factors like aging, injuries, illnesses, inactivity, or nutritional deficiencies. Some key points about loss of strength:
Causes
- Aging: As we grow older, there is natural decrease in muscle mass and strength. This condition is called sarcopenia.
- Lack of activity: Not exercising regularly can lead to loss of muscle and strength over time. An inactive lifestyle accelerates age-related strength decline.
- Injuries: Issues like fractures, sprains, tendonitis, etc. can reduce ability to use muscles fully.
- Illnesses: Chronic health conditions like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease affect energy, mobility and strength.
Effects
- Difficulty in carrying out daily activities like climbing stairs, running, lifting objects etc.
- Increased risk of falls and injuries. Loss of leg strength affects gait and balance.
- Reduced bone density when muscles are consistently underused. This heightens fracture risk later.
- Weight gain due to lower daily calorie burn and activity expenditure.
- Mood issues like depression due to reduced independence and mobility.
What helps regain strength?
- Strength training: This builds muscle with targeted anaerobic exercises using weights, bands, or your own body weight. Helps achieve sculpted, well-defined muscles.
- Good nutrition: Adequate protein, healthy fats, anti-inflammatory foods, fruits and vegetables provide energy and nutrition to fuel muscle growth.
- Hormone optimization: Declining hormones like testosterone, growth hormone lead to loss of muscle mass. Replacement at Renew Medical HRT Clinic can help regain vigor and strength while slowing aspects of aging.
So in summary, loss of strength has many causes but can be improved through exercise, sufficient nutrition, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and getting any underlying illnesses treated. Seniors in particular should have specialized programs tailored to their needs and age to help
strengthen muscles and
improve balance. Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity as well as some strength training for major muscle groups. Let me know if you have any other questions!