Loss of strength - Balance Clinic

Loss of Strength: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Loss of strength is a common condition that can occur for a variety of reasons as we age. It is often a gradual process that happens over time, but can also come on more suddenly after an injury or illness. Some key reasons why loss of strength occurs include:

• Muscle loss (sarcopenia): As we get older, we naturally lose muscle mass and strength, typically starting around age 30. This muscle loss accelerates after age 60. Less muscle means less strength.
• Neurological changes: The nerves that activate our muscles can become damaged over time due to normal aging, chronic diseases like diabetes, or injuries. This makes it harder for the brain to fully activate muscles.
• Hormonal changes: Lower levels of key hormones like testosterone, growth hormone, and estrogen as we age can lead to reductions in muscle mass and strength.
• Physical inactivity: Use it or lose it! Being inactive leads to loss of muscle, and therefore strength loss.
• Poor nutrition: Not getting enough protein or calories to maintain muscle mass can accelerate strength loss.
• Arthritis and injuries: Issues like osteoarthritis, damaged tendons or ligaments can make joints less stable or flexible, impairing strength.

Causes of Loss of Strength	Description
Muscle loss (sarcopenia)	Natural loss of muscle mass and strength with age
Neurological changes	Nerve damage due to aging, chronic diseases, or injuries
Hormonal changes	Lower levels of testosterone, growth hormone, and estrogen
Physical inactivity	Lack of exercise leading to muscle loss
Poor nutrition	Insufficient protein or calories to maintain muscle mass
Arthritis and injuries	Joint instability or inflexibility due to osteoarthritis or injuries

Some symptoms of loss of strength include:

• Difficulty opening jars or turning keys
• Problems getting up from a seated position
• Trouble climbing stairs
• Fatigue with activities like vacuuming or yardwork
• Needing to use hands or railings to rise from a chair
• Losing balance or falling

Symptoms of Loss of Strength	Description
Difficulty with daily tasks	Trouble opening jars, turning keys, or getting up from a seated position
Fatigue with physical activities	Feeling tired when doing household chores or yardwork
Reliance on support	Needing to use hands or railings to rise from a chair
Balance issues	Losing balance or falling more frequently

If you are concerned about loss of strength, there are steps you can take to help minimize or reverse this common problem:

• Start or increase resistance training to build muscle and strength
• Focus on getting enough protein daily along with crucial micronutrients
• Treat any underlying medical conditions contributing to weakness
• Improve flexibility and balance through stretching or yoga
• Consider hormone replacement therapy if levels are low
• Use assistive devices like canes or walkers to improve stability

The sooner you take action by optimizing nutrition, activity, and lifestyle habits, the better chance you have of maintaining strength, energy and independence. Don't just accept loss of strength as an inevitable part of aging! The physicians at Balance Clinic can provide customized care to identify any hormone deficiencies or other issues leading to loss of strength. We'll help you regain your strength and vitality!

Conclusion

Loss of strength is a common issue that many people face as they age, but it doesn't have to be an inevitable part of growing older. By understanding the causes and symptoms of strength loss, and taking proactive steps to address them, you can maintain your strength, independence, and quality of life well into your golden years. If you're concerned about loss of strength, don't hesitate to seek help from a qualified healthcare provider, such as the experts at Balance Clinic. With the right support and guidance, you can regain your strength and continue to enjoy all that life has to offer.