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Muscle atrophy

• Overview
• Treatment

Alternative Names:

Muscle wasting; Wasting; Atrophy of the muscles

Home Care:

An exercise program (under the direction of a therapist or doctor) is recommended along with whirlpool baths and other types of rehabilitation.

Exercises using braces or splints are recommended for those who cannot actively move one or more joints.

Call your health care provider if:

Call your doctor for an appointment if you have unexplained or prolonged loss of muscle.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

The doctor will perform a physical examination and ask questions about your medical history and symptoms, including

• When did the muscle atrophy begin?
• Is it getting worse?
• What nerve or muscle is affected?
• What other symptoms do you have?

The doctor will look at your arms and legs and measure muscle size.

Tests that may be performed include:

• CT scans
• Electromyography
• Muscle biopsy
• Nerve conduction studies
• X-rays

Treatment may include ultrasound therapy and, in some cases, surgery to correct a contracture .

• Review Date: 5/22/2007
• Reviewed By: Joseph V. Campellone, M.D., Division of Neurology, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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