Question 1

What is the Meaning of Disuse Atrophy?

Accepted Answer

Disuse atrophy refers to the reduction in size and strength of tissues, primarily muscle and bone, due to prolonged inactivity or diminished mechanical loading. This physiological adaptation occurs when the demands on these structures decrease significantly, leading to a loss of functional capacity. It signifies tissue regression from insufficient stimulation.

Question 2

What is the Context of Disuse Atrophy?

Accepted Answer

This phenomenon affects the musculoskeletal system, where lack of regular physical activity, weight-bearing, or muscular contraction triggers a catabolic shift. Conditions like prolonged bed rest, limb immobilization, neurological impairment, or microgravity create circumstances for disuse atrophy. The body conserves energy by reducing metabolically active tissue when perceived as unnecessary.

Question 3

What is the Significance of Disuse Atrophy?

Accepted Answer

Clinically, disuse atrophy presents a substantial challenge, contributing to functional decline, reduced mobility, and increased frailty. It diminishes physical independence, elevates fall risk, and complicates recovery from injuries or surgery. Understanding its impact is crucial for developing effective rehabilitation strategies and maintaining patient well-being.

Question 4

What is the Mechanism of Disuse Atrophy?

Accepted Answer

At a cellular level, muscle disuse atrophy involves decreased protein synthesis and accelerated protein degradation, causing net loss of muscle fibers. In bone, reduced mechanical stress shifts the balance towards increased osteoclastic activity and decreased osteoblastic bone formation, leading to diminished bone mineral density. Hormonal changes also contribute to this catabolic state.

Question 5

What is the Application of Disuse Atrophy?

Accepted Answer

Disuse atrophy is common in patients with extended hospitalization, orthopedic immobilization, or chronic conditions limiting activity. Prevention involves early mobilization and nutritional support. Therapeutic interventions focus on progressive resistance training, weight-bearing exercises, and functional movement retraining to restore tissue mass and strength.

Question 6

What is the Metric of Disuse Atrophy?

Accepted Answer

Assessment involves objective measures. Muscle mass is quantified through DEXA or BIA, while muscle strength is evaluated using handheld dynamometry. Bone mineral density is reliably measured via DEXA scans. Functional capacity is often gauged by performance on timed tests, such as the 6-minute walk test or sit-to-stand repetitions.

Question 7

What is the Risk of Disuse Atrophy?

Accepted Answer

Failure to address disuse atrophy carries significant health risks, including severe muscle weakness, joint contractures, and heightened fracture susceptibility due to compromised bone integrity. It can also contribute to metabolic dysfunction and an overall reduction in physical resilience. These consequences limit daily activities and prolong recovery from illness.

Disuse Atrophy

Meaning

Context

Significance

Mechanism

Application

Metric

Risk

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